Pakistan Bans Vehicles Over 20 Years Old on Motorways to Boost Road Safety

In a decisive move to improve road safety, Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has announced a ban on vehicles older than 20 years from traveling on Pakistan’s motorways. The decision comes amid growing concerns over the rising number of traffic accidents across the country.

During his visit to the National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) Headquarters in Islamabad, Minister Khan reviewed key operations, including the Command-and-Control System. Officers formally saluted the minister upon his arrival, and he paid tribute to fallen motorway police heroes, offering prayers for their eternal peace.

Addressing the Alarming Rise in Traffic Accidents

Minister Khan expressed deep concern about the persistent rise in motorway accidents, stressing that immediate action was necessary to protect lives.

“Saving lives is paramount, and that requires making difficult decisions. Accidents keep happening in the same places, and this must come to an end,” Khan stated, urging the Inspector General of Motorway Police to develop a comprehensive strategy to address the issue.

The minister emphasized that the new vehicle age restriction would be enforced strictly, alongside a zero-tolerance policy for violations such as speeding and overloading — both significant contributors to road fatalities.

Mandatory Training and Fitness Certification for Commercial Drivers

In addition to the vehicle ban, Minister Khan unveiled a series of measures aimed at strengthening overall traffic safety:

• Mandatory Training for Commercial Drivers:
  All commercial drivers will be required to undergo formal training to improve driving standards and road behavior.
• Fitness Certificates for Commercial Vehicles:
  Within the next three months, every commercial vehicle operating on Pakistan’s motorways must possess a valid fitness certificate to ensure roadworthiness.

These reforms are part of a broader, nationwide initiative to create a safer transportation network, aligning Pakistan with international road safety standards.

A Comprehensive Road Safety Vision

Minister Khan’s announcements reflect a larger vision: transforming Pakistan’s roadways into safer, more efficient transport corridors. By targeting aging vehicles, promoting driver education, and enforcing strict compliance with safety regulations, the government aims to significantly reduce accidents and save lives.

Road safety advocates and transport experts have welcomed the move, noting that poorly maintained and outdated vehicles contribute disproportionately to accidents and fatalities.

As implementation unfolds over the coming months, the success of these measures will depend on effective enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and sustained coordination between federal and provincial authorities.

Afsheen Gohar

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