The federal government of Pakistan is taking steps towards implementing a “Unified Traffic System” across the country with the aim of enhancing the convenience for motorists and improving road safety, according to a report by The News. The government has presented three proposals to the relevant departments in each province to launch this system, including centralised driving licenses, commercial vehicle fitness assessment, and data sharing about driving licenses and traffic. The government is now awaiting input from the provincial authorities to move forward with the implementation process.
Reviewing International Traffic Systems
To develop an effective traffic system, the federal authorities thoroughly studied the traffic systems adopted by various foreign countries. Based on their findings, they concluded that Pakistan needs a comprehensive traffic system that can simplify procedures, provide convenience to motorists, and reduce road accidents.
Impact of Road Trauma on the Economy
Data from the Federal Ministry of Communications reveals that road trauma has a significant impact on the national economy. The cost of road traffic crashes amounts to approximately 3% of Pakistan’s GDP, resulting in an annual loss of up to $9 billion. These alarming figures underscore the urgent need for measures to improve road safety and mitigate the economic consequences of road accidents.
National Transport Policy 2018
The National Transport Policy 2018 highlights the challenges that Pakistan will face in terms of road safety due to projected increases in population, vehicles, and passenger and freight movements in the coming decades. To address these challenges, the government is keen on implementing a Unified Traffic System that can effectively manage the growing demands on the road network and ensure the safety of all road users.
Coordination between Federal and Provincial Governments
Under the 18th Amendment, responsibilities were devolved to the provinces, granting them direct authority over most areas of road safety regulation and management. In light of this devolution of power, the federal government seeks coordination with the provinces to introduce the Unified Traffic System nationwide. Representatives from the federal and provincial governments have already held meetings to discuss the implementation of this system. The next steps involve working out the modalities and establishing a consensus among all stakeholders to introduce the Unified Traffic System in the coming years.
The introduction of a “Unified Traffic System” in Pakistan has the potential to revolutionize road safety and enhance the convenience of motorists across the country. With the government’s focus on centralised driving licenses, commercial vehicle fitness assessment, and improved data sharing, the proposed system aims to simplify procedures, reduce road accidents, and mitigate the economic losses caused by road trauma.
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The coordination between the federal and provincial governments is crucial to ensure the successful implementation of this system and make Pakistan’s roads safer for everyone. By prioritizing road safety and adopting best practices from around the world, the government is taking a significant step towards building a more efficient and secure transportation network.
