Missing signboards raise safety hazards.

KARACHI -- Where most urban areas with developed road networks utilize road signboards for a smooth flow of traffic, the city of Quaid lets drivers cruise at their will.

While the majority of drivers are unaware of traffic rules, those who have the relevant knowledge are unable to make use of it since a majority of the roads and highways in Karachi have either missing or worn-out traffic signs, leading to a chaotic situation on roads, where drivers are unaware of the directions they are heading or the landmarks they are approaching.

According to urban planner, Muhammad Toheed,'It is unfortunate to note that that most populous city in the country, is lacking mandatory traffic signs, which are crucial for the steady flow of traffic and the safety of the drivers.'

Indeed, many citizens report the road hazards that arise out of a paucity of traffic signs on major road networks. 'Despite knowing all the traffic signs, I cannot drive safely since the signboards for U-turns, pedestrian crossings, speed limits and landmarks, are all missing,' complained Mehwish, who regularly delivers food to various office employees in her car. 'As a result, many road accidents occur regularly,' she added.

While some citizens like Mehwish are cognizant of the meaning and importance of traffic signs, others are completely unaware. As Mohammad Sohail, an officer associated with a government agency, noted, 'A majority of the car drivers on Karachi's road are clueless about the meaning of the various traffic symbols. In such a situation, frequent traffic accidents are bound to occur.'

According to former inspector general (IG) Sindh, Sardar Abdul Majeed Dasti, the traffic police must ensure that every citizen who is issued a driver's license is able to identify all of the traffic signs on the roads. 'There are almost 80 traffic signs which are used to regulate the steady flow of traffic, and the traffic police must ensure that drivers possess this knowledge before they are allowed to drive.'

In fact, adequate knowledge...