Following tragic vehicle fires in Murree that claimed lives due to burns, Rawalpindi Division authorities have issued a directive making modern fire extinguishing equipment and separate emergency exit doors mandatory for all public transport vehicles, including buses, wagons, coasters, and Suzuki vans operating on both intra-city and long-distance routes.
Strict Enforcement Measures
The Regional Transport Authority, Rawalpindi Traffic Police, and Civil Defence teams have been instructed to conduct strict monitoring, impose heavy fines, and impound vehicles that fail to meet the new safety requirements. Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi, Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema, stated that passenger safety is the government's top priority and that no compromise will be tolerated on this issue.
“Fire extinguishers and emergency exits must be installed in all vehicles. Those failing to comply will not be allowed to operate,” Cheema said. He added that inspection teams have been formed to begin checking vehicles from Monday, June 29. These teams will carry out roadside inspections and enforcement actions across the division.
Background of the Directive
The decision came after two passenger vehicles caught fire in Murree, resulting in fatalities due to burns. The incidents highlighted gaps in safety equipment and emergency preparedness in public transport. Officials said instructions have been issued by both the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner for strict implementation of the safety measures on all routes within the division.
Transport operators have been given a deadline to comply, after which non-compliant vehicles will be taken off the roads. The authorities are also considering awareness campaigns to educate drivers and passengers about emergency procedures.
