In a disheartening revelation, more than 1,400 individuals lost their lives, and over 18,000 sustained injuries in road accidents throughout Karachi in the year 2023, as reported by rescue sources cited by ARY News. The distressing statistics shed light on the persistent issues of overspeeding and motorbike riders without helmets, primarily contributing to the alarming number of casualties.
Rescue sources disclosed that the prevalent causes behind the tragic incidents were overspeeding and the lack of helmet usage among motorbike riders. The year 2023 witnessed a staggering toll, with over 1,400 citizens losing their lives, and more than 18,000 individuals suffering injuries, a significant portion of whom ended up handicapped.
The report emphasized that speeding dumpers and passenger buses played a pivotal role in the rising casualties resulting from road crashes in Karachi. The recklessness and negligence of drivers operating these vehicles have become a concerning trend, contributing significantly to the overall road safety crisis in the city.
Traffic police officials, commenting on the alarming situation, pointed out that the primary cause of traffic accidents remains rash and irresponsible driving practices. The authorities are grappling with the challenge of enforcing stricter regulations and promoting responsible behavior among drivers to mitigate the escalating toll of road accidents.
A specific concern highlighted in the report is the movement of speeding dumpers and passenger buses, which have become notorious for their involvement in fatal road accidents. Addressing this issue becomes imperative to curtail the rising numbers of casualties and injuries on Karachi’s roads.
In a tragic incident on October 11, the city witnessed a devastating collision between a car and a van in Khairpur, resulting in at least 12 fatalities and 11 others sustaining injuries. The Deputy Commissioner reported that the accident occurred in Khairpur, where a Sukkur-bound van collided with a car, leading to the unfortunate demise of 12 individuals.
The recurring incidents of road accidents underscore the urgent need for comprehensive measures to enhance road safety, enforce traffic regulations, and raise awareness about responsible driving practices. Initiatives such as awareness campaigns, enhanced law enforcement, and infrastructure improvements are essential to address the root causes of road accidents and save lives on Karachi’s perilous roads.
As the city grapples with the aftermath of a year marked by a significant loss of lives on its roads, the call for immediate and effective interventions to enhance road safety has never been more pressing. The collaborative efforts of authorities, law enforcement agencies, and the community are vital to create a safer and more secure environment for all road users in Karachi.