Approximately 500 people are injured in road accidents across Karachi each day, with 70% of the victims being young motorcyclists, according to a recent report. In 2023 alone, over 18,000 people were injured, and 1,400 lost their lives in motorcycle-related accidents, highlighting the urgent need for increased safety measures. Motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation, particularly for middle-income families, due to their affordability and convenience.
However, the lack of adherence to basic safety protocols, especially the use of helmets, is contributing to the high rate of accidents. Helmets are a critical safety measure, significantly reducing the severity of injuries, but many riders neglect their use, leading to tragic outcomes.
Data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) indicates that between 2021 and 2022, 5,816 people died and 12,889 were injured in road accidents nationwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported an even higher figure of 28,170 deaths in 2020.
These statistics suggest that many accidents may go unreported, meaning the true number of casualties could be far higher. Karachi, the country’s largest and most densely populated city, sees a heavy load of traffic on nearly every major road, which contributes to the alarming number of road accidents.
Common causes include traffic rule violations, poorly maintained bikes, inadequate driver training, and poor road conditions. Mehfooz Pakistan, a safety advocacy platform, stresses the importance of a multifaceted approach to reducing motorcycle accidents. This includes promoting safe riding practices, proper vehicle maintenance, and greater awareness among both motorcyclists and other road users.
