LAHORE: A few days after the Punjab government announced heavy fines and stricter punishments under the new traffic rules, it has now been revealed that vehicles of repeated traffic violators will also be auctioned.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired a meeting on Friday to review plans for a modern traffic system. Officials briefed her that 20 major reforms had been added to the 60-year-old Traffic Act, including fines for government-owned vehicles as well.
The meeting was informed that a 30-day deadline has been set to end one-way violations. In cases of underage driving, the owner of the vehicle may face up to six months in prison.
A province-wide crackdown has also been ordered against people travelling on the roof of buses, while Qingqi rickshaws have been completely banned on five model roads in Lahore.
“Traffic issues must be improved in all cities, including Lahore,” CM Maryam said, adding that there will be no exceptions and everyone must pay fines for breaking traffic rules.
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On parking issues, officials told the meeting that marriage halls will not be allowed to operate without proper parking space. It was also decided that families of people killed in traffic accidents will receive immediate compensation.
Hefty fines under new ordinance
According to the ordinance signed by Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider:
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Driving without a fitness certificate can lead to a fine of up to Rs100,000 along with imprisonment.
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Using non-standard window glass may also result in up to six months in jail.
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Violating one-way rules can lead to six months’ imprisonment or a fine up to Rs50,000.
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Wearing a seat belt is now mandatory for the front-seat passenger, with strict fines for violation.
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Punishment for underage driving has been doubled, and parents will be held responsible.
Fines for smoke-emitting vehicles are:
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Rs2,000 for motorcycles
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Rs3,000 for three-wheelers
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Rs8,000 for private vehicles
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Rs15,000 for public transport
Fines for overspeeding have been increased by up to 300%:
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Motorcycles: Rs2,000
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Cars: Rs5,000
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Fines for overloading include:
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Rs3,000 for three-wheelers
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Rs5,000 for vehicles under 2,000cc
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Rs10,000 for larger vehicles
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Rs15,000 for trailers
Fines for signal violations will be:
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Rs2,000 for motorcycles
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Rs3,000 for three-wheelers
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Rs5,000 for cars
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Rs10,000 for 2,000cc vehicles
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Rs15,000 for vehicles above 2,000cc
Strict action will also be taken against anyone using yellow number plates, fake plates, or non-standard plates, with extra penalties for repeat offenders. Motorists who fail to carry registration documents or proof of ownership will also face legal action.
