In a bid to bring about positive change in the city’s traffic system and road safety, Karachi administration has come forward with new policies for Heavy Transport Vehicles (HTVs). The new ruling will now see all heavy vehicles contained to a dedicated lane which imposes a maximum 30km/h speed limit that is guaranteed to keep them away from high-speed passenger traffic.
Separate Lane Allocated for Heavy Vehicles in Karachi
The decision was made in a high-level meeting, which was chaired by Karachi Commissioner Hasan Naqvi. They concurred that the move would tremendously ease traffic congestion and trim down the number of road accidents on city’s main thorough fares.
There will be visible “HTV” road signs and lane.
30km/h Speed Limit Enforced for HTVs
The 30km/h limit applies to all heavy vehicles using the lane, city authorities said. Any HTV will be brought to justice by force of law:
- Overspeeding beyond the allowed limit
- Driving outside the assigned lane
There will be fines, and penalties, and if you deliberately flout the rules, then I’m afraid we will have to issue very stringent legal consequences.
Parking, Licensing, and Insurance Challenges Discussed
Officials also discussed the pending demands of goods transport operators such as:
- Lack of adequate parking places for heavy goods vehicles
- Delays in HTV licensing processes
- Registration and insurance-related difficulties
Highups of the Karachi Police, Transport Department and Goods Transport Associations attended the meeting to find out feasible solutions for them.
Mai Kolachi to Qayyumabad Route Chosen for Initial Implementation
Officials said the dedicated HTV lane will initially be introduced in the Mai Kolachi to Qayyumabad Bridge corridor. This site was chosen because:
- Heavy commercial traffic flow
- Heavy traffic to often due to lumbering trucks
- It significance as a vital shipment and commercial thoroughfare
This artery is one where the regulation of HTV movement would take a substantial load off already congested traffic.
Importance of the Dedicated HTV Lane Decision
I will be good for city planners, they believe:
- Enhance traffic movement over the arterial roads
- Minimisation of the heavy-vehicle crashes on road
- Reduce bottlenecks from with incorrectly parked trucks
- Enhance overall commuter safety
Further suggestions, such as building special goods transporter terminal, are also being considered.
Final Thoughts
The launching of the Heavy Transport Vehicles (HTVs) dedicated lane in Karachi is a good omen towards adoption of modern traffic system and maintaining safety on roads. Enforcement will start after all the lane markings and signs are erected, urging transporters/ drivers to comply for Channelisation.
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