The Sindh government has announced strict new amendments to the Sindh Motor Vehicles Rules, introducing mandatory fitness certificates, vehicle age limits, and advanced safety systems for all heavy commercial vehicles operating across the province.
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon explained during a press briefing that every heavy vehicle must now obtain a fitness certificate from transport department-approved centers. Violations will be penalized in stages, with fines escalating from minor penalties to Rs200,000 for a second offense and up to Rs300,000 for a third. All fines will be deposited directly into the Sindh government’s account.
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The amendments establish clear vehicle age limits to reduce accidents caused by poorly maintained vehicles. Heavy vehicles older than 20 years will be banned from inter-provincial routes, while those over 25 years will be barred from inter-city travel. Within city limits, vehicles must not exceed 35 years of age to continue operations, ensuring safer roads and modernized fleets.
Moreover, the government has made it mandatory for all heavy and light commercial vehicles to install GPS tracking devices, high-definition front and rear cameras, driver monitoring systems, and 360-degree camera coverage. Under-run protection guards must also be fitted to prevent smaller vehicles or motorcycles from being crushed during accidents. Vehicles lacking these systems will be denied registration, fitness certificates, permits, or ownership transfers.
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Heavy vehicles have been linked to a surge in deadly accidents, especially in Karachi, where 165 fatalities were recorded this year alone. Recent violent protests following a fatal water tanker collision in Karachi further highlighted the urgency of reform. The new measures aim to improve public safety, reduce accidents, and make law enforcement and accident investigations more transparent using modern technology.
Memon stressed that these changes will be enforced strictly without yielding to pressure from transport associations. Traffic Police, Excise Police, and Transport Authorities have been instructed to ensure compliance, as the government believes the modern system will safeguard lives, modernize the transport sector, and bring lasting improvements to Sindh’s traffic management.