Karachi saw a raise in the number of road accidents in 2024 which resulted in the loss of 715 lives – including women and children – in the metropolis.

According to ARY News, the victims included 562 men, 80 women, and 73 children, with an additional 7,621 citizens injured, including women and children.

Among the injured, men accounted for 6,290 cases, while women and children suffered 994 and 337 injuries, respectively.

Comparing the numbers to the previous year report of ARY, the fatality and injuries count witnessed a significant decrease from 1,400 and 18,000 in 2023, respectively.

Authorities face increasing pressure to address the root causes of these accidents and improve road safety measures in the city.

Earlier this week, Police Chief Javed Alam Odho quoted a figure of 400 fatal accidents reported in Karachi this year during a bike distribution ceremony for women police officers.

The event was held at the Karachi Police Office in collaboration with Meezan Bank to support the female police.

Odho acknowledged the seriousness of any loss of life, stressing the high risks posed by dumpers, which are frequently involved in Karachi’s deadly accidents.

He noted that drivers of these heavy vehicles often face arrest and the authorities are instructed to take legal action against their owners, if needed.

“Dumpers have blind spots that make motorcyclists especially vulnerable,” Odho explained, stressing the importance of raising public awareness about road safety, particularly among bikers.

READ: Speeding dumper ran over college professor, wife in Karachi

He added that strict measures are in place, including limiting dumper operation hours from 11 PM to 6 AM.

Karachi Police are also focusing on ensuring drivers are properly trained and licensed.

Odho pointed out that while improvements in traffic flow are visible, challenges persist due to road maintenance, utility work, and protests.

Source: ARY News