Under the upgraded rules, vehicles repeatedly violating traffic laws will face auction, marking what authorities call a zero tolerance era for reckless driving. Even government vehicles are no longer exempt, as the reforms promise no special treatment, no hidden privileges.
To curb the widespread issue of one way violations, the administration has granted a 30 day grace period before strict enforcement begins. Officials believe this window will help educate the public before penalties intensify.
In another long awaited improvement, Uturns across major cities will undergo structural redesign, an initiative expected to reduce crashes and ease traffic bottlenecks.
A key development is the agreement to provide compensation (diyat) immediately to families of road accident victims, a reform described as a humane step toward timely justice.
The crackdown on underage driving will also intensify. Vehicle owners allowing minors to drive may now face up to six months in jail, a penalty introduced to end what officials call a dangerous habit normalized for far too long.
Across Punjab, passengers will no longer be allowed to ride on bus rooftops, and a coordinated crackdown has been ordered to enforce the rule.
For Lahore, the province’s busiest city, the government has banned Chingchi rickshaws on five model roads, aiming to improve traffic flow and safety.
In a significant policy shift, marriage halls without proper parking facilities will not be permitted to operate, a move intended to reduce roadside chaos.
Chairing a detailed briefing on Punjab’s traffic overhaul and road safety, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif issued a clear statement. I am giving traffic police their final chance. If they fail, we will build a new department from scratch.
Calling the province’s disordered traffic a reflection of weakened state authority, the Chief Minister stressed that no violator will be spared, no matter their status.
She further warned that intercity vehicles speeding excessively to reach destinations early will face strict action, adding that we must restore order in Lahore and every other city without delay.
