In a significant move to enhance road safety, the National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) have announced that all passengers in public transport vehicles must wear seat belts at all times while traveling on motorways.
New Safety Rules
According to the NHMP spokesperson, the regulation applies to buses, coaches, and other passenger vehicles. Bus drivers and staff are now legally required to ensure passengers are buckled up before departure and throughout the journey.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The NHMP has made it clear that:
- Passengers not wearing seat belts will be fined.
- Buses without seat belts installed for passengers will not be allowed to enter the motorway.
These measures aim to reduce injuries and fatalities in road accidents, especially on high-speed routes.
Shared Responsibility for Safety
The spokesperson emphasized that both passengers and transport operators have a legal and moral responsibility to ensure safe travel. While the NHMP enforces the law, safety begins with individual compliance.
Why Seat Belts Matter in Public Transport
Seat belts are proven to significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death in road accidents. Even in large buses, passengers can be thrown forward during sudden braking or collisions, making restraints essential.
Moving Toward Safer Roads
This decision reflects the NHMP’s ongoing efforts to bring Pakistan’s road safety standards in line with global best practices. The policy encourages transport companies to upgrade their fleets with proper seat belt installations and educate passengers about their use.
By enforcing seat belt usage for every passenger, the NHMP hopes to make motorway travel safer, more disciplined, and accident-resilient.
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