KARACHI — Former MNA Nabil Gabol was filmed riding a motorcycle through the streets of Karachi on Wednesday, sparking a debate over traffic safety and the rule of law.
In the brief clip, which circulated rapidly across social media platforms, the senior politician is seen navigating through city traffic. He is not wearing a helmet. A passenger is also visible on the back of the bike, also without head protection.
The footage drew immediate criticism from road safety advocates. In a city where traffic police frequently conduct crackdowns against motorcyclists for failing to wear helmets, the sight of a prominent public figure flouting the same regulations has left many residents questioning the consistency of enforcement.
“The law doesn’t have an exemption list,” said a local traffic warden who spoke on condition of anonymity. “When people see public figures bypassing safety rules, it undermines our daily efforts to educate the public on the streets.”
Gabol, known for his long-standing presence in Karachi’s political scene, has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the viral video.
Motorcycle accidents remain a leading cause of trauma-related injuries in Karachi. Local authorities have long struggled to enforce helmet usage, often citing cultural resistance and limited resources. While the Karachi Traffic Police maintain that fines are issued daily for such violations, the viral video highlights a recurring perception that enforcement is often selective.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the gap between traffic regulations and their application in Pakistan’s largest city. For now, the video remains a focal point for critics who argue that public accountability should start with those in the spotlight.
