SINDH: A major theft incident has been reported on the Sukkur-Multan Motorway (M-5), where modern surveillance cameras infrastructure installed along a nearly 200-kilometre stretch has been stolen, raising serious concerns over security and governance.
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According to reports, advanced speed monitoring cameras, surveillance systems, solar panels, street lights, and even poles have been removed from the section between Sukkur and Rahim Yar Khan. The theft is believed to have been carried out by criminal groups operating in riverine areas.
The situation is particularly alarming in the vicinity of Ghotki district, especially around the Katcha belt near Jahan Khan forest, where not only cameras and solar equipment have been uprooted, but even the roofs of police security posts have reportedly gone missing. Officials noted an absence of operational activity at several of these checkpoints.
In addition, street lights at motorway service areas are non-functional, while nearly 90 percent of recently installed solar reflectors have either been damaged or rendered useless. The large-scale removal and destruction of infrastructure have left long stretches of the motorway without proper monitoring and lighting.
Due to the absence or malfunctioning of surveillance cameras, motorway police have resorted to traditional methods of speed monitoring. Officials are now placing portable speed cameras along the roadside to enforce traffic regulations and issue fines.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over the maintenance and security of public infrastructure projects in Sindh. Despite being a key federal project aimed at improving connectivity and safety, the motorway appears to be facing serious administrative and security challenges.
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Authorities are expected to investigate the matter and take steps to restore the damaged infrastructure and prevent further losses.