Islamabad, Pakistan: The NHMP fire extinguisher rule made fire extinguishers mandatory for all vehicles on Wednesday, with stricter checks planned after June 24.
A National Highway and Motorway Police spokesperson said every vehicle must carry an active fire extinguisher. The rule will apply especially to passenger, cargo and public service vehicles.
The spokesperson said vehicles without working extinguishers would face legal action after June 24. Cargo and public service vehicles without extinguishers will also be barred from entering motorways and national highways.
The NHMP has launched a nationwide fire safety awareness campaign that will continue until June 24. Drivers have been told to check the expiry dates of extinguishers before travelling.
The spokesperson said expired or non-working fire extinguishers would not be accepted during checks. The measure aims to reduce fire risks during accidents, according to the NHMP statement.
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The new rule follows a van fire on the Islamabad-Murree Expressway near Khajut last week. At least 10 people died, and 13 others were injured after the vehicle fell into a nullah while taking a turn
