The National Highways and Motorway Police has decided to tighten safety measures on national highways and motorways by making fire extinguishers mandatory for all passenger and cargo vehicles.

According to a Motorway Police spokesperson, the decision has been taken in view of the rising risk of fires during road accidents. The move is aimed at protecting lives and property by ensuring that vehicles are equipped to respond to fire-related emergencies.

The Motorway Police has also launched a nationwide fire safety awareness campaign, which will continue until June 24. During the campaign, drivers and transporters will be briefed on the importance, proper use, and working condition of fire extinguishers.

The spokesperson said that every passenger and goods transport vehicle must carry a functional and standard fire extinguisher. Drivers have been advised to check the condition and expiry date of the equipment before starting their journey, as expired or non-functional extinguishers will not be accepted.

The department has warned that strict enforcement will begin after June 24. Passenger and cargo vehicles without fire extinguishers will not be allowed to enter motorways, while violators will face legal action under the law.

The development comes a week after at least 10 people were killed and 13 others injured when a van caught fire after falling into a nullah while taking a turn on the Islamabad-Murree Expressway.

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