Sindh rolls out new traffic penalties and demerit point system | The Express Tribune
Key Takeaways
- Sindh government amended the Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1965 to introduce heavy fines and a demerit point system.
- The new system targets dangerous traffic violations including overspeeding, signal violations, and driving without a license.
- Fines are increased and differentiated based on vehicle type (motorcycles, cars, heavy transport).
- Repeat offenders face severe consequences, including potential suspension or cancellation of their driving licenses.
- The government aims to improve road safety and is also implementing digital monitoring and enhanced traffic police training.
The Sindh government has enacted significant amendments to the 12th Schedule of the Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1965, establishing a stringent new regime of heavy fines and demerit points for various traffic violations province-wide. Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon stated the objective is to enhance road safety and discipline habitual offenders by penalizing dangerous acts such as overspeeding, signal violations, and driving without a license. Fines are scaled according to vehicle class, with overspeeding now costing Rs5,000 for motorcycles up to Rs20,000 for heavy vehicles, accompanied by demerit points. For instance, driving without a license can incur a fine up to Rs50,000 and six points, while reckless driving warrants Rs25,000 and eight points. Memon clarified that these rules target deadly actions, not minor infractions, and stressed that repeat violators risk having their licenses suspended or revoked. Furthermore, the government plans to modernize traffic management using digital monitoring and improved police training, noting the demerit system aligns with practices in developed nations.
