Punjab Enforces Strict Traffic Laws Against Underage Drivers
Punjab has made traffic laws stricter under the new Motor Vehicle Ordinance. The law took effect in Gujranwala on Tuesday. Officials said minors under 18 are now completely banned from driving motorcycles or cars.
Violators face criminal cases and fines 500 times higher than before. Parents expressed concerns, especially about school and college students who rely on motorcycles for commuting. Many students also drop siblings at school, a routine disrupted by the new law.
New Rules and Penalties
According to Section B-99 of the ordinance, anyone under 18 caught driving will receive a registered FIR. Fines have risen from Rs200 to Rs2,000. Minors may also face up to six months in jail and an additional Rs10,000 fine.
Parents worry about the added transportation costs. Hiring rickshaws now costs Rs20,000–30,000 per month, and bicycles cost at least Rs15,000. Some parents managing school pick-ups may struggle to balance work and household responsibilities.
Concerns also extend to girls using government-issued electric scooters.
Police Crackdown and Awareness
Gujranwala City Traffic Police launched a strict crackdown. During November 27–28, officers issued 3,750 challans for multiple violations. This included 169 for underage driving, 514 for not wearing helmets, and 692 for driving without licences. Police registered 45 criminal cases, including underage drivers despite prior warnings.
Traffic Police Education Teams are visiting schools and colleges to raise awareness. CTO Aysha Butt urged parents not to hand over vehicles to minors. She warned that accidents can cause serious losses and criminal records. She emphasized that strict enforcement under the 2025 amendment will continue without exception
