THE practice of getting installed blinding, high-intensity LED headlights in vehicles has been on the rise. This is one of the main reasons behind the rising number of road traffic accidents (RTAs) in the country. The situation in Lahore is particularly alarming. Data for January 2025indicates a 29 per centincreasein RTAs across Punjab.

Compounding this hazard are the omnipresent, brightly lit advertisement screens installed along city roads. These dynamic, attention-grabbing displays are a major source of distraction, diverting drivers` focus from the road ahead.

Thisgraveissue canbe addressed through a multi-pronged approach. The government should launch massive public awareness campaigns, educating drivers about the dangers of high-intensity lights, proper headlight usage, and the ramifications of illegal modifications.

The traffic police must conduct frequent, targeted checks, especially at night, to identify and fine vehicles with illegal or improperly aligned high-intensity lights. The fines should be substantial enoughto act as a deterrent.

The authorities should implement stringent vehicle inspection protocols during annual registration renewals to ensure that the headlights of vehicles comply with safety standards. Besides, the government should regulate the import and sale of after-market high-intensity LED kits.

Investment in upgrading and maintaining streetlights on all major roads and highways is essential. And, finally, there should be restrictions regarding placement of advertisement screens in areas prone to accidents or where they could cause maximum distraction, such as sharp turns,intersections, or on fast-moving motorways.

The safety of commuters is paramount.

It is time the authorities acknowledged the severity of these long overlooked issues and took swift and decisive action.

Muhammad Salahuddin Khan Lahore