Police propose hike in traffic violation fine from Rs 500 to 10,000

LAHORE: In an attempt to curb rampant traffic violations across the Punjab capital, the traffic police authorities have proposed HEFTY increase in fine for violators to cope with lingering issue with the iron hand.

According to the letter of deputy inspector general of police Lahore, at least 6000 traffic violations are witnessed in Lahore almost on daily basis, and “such violations cause slow traffic, blockage of roads, and accidents. Hence enhancement of penalty/fine can help restrain people from such violations.

He suggested that penalty for motorcycle violators be increased from current Rs 200 to Rs 2000, while fine for drivers of cars/jeeps be enhanced from Rs 500 to whooping Rs 10,000.

The deputy IG has sent his recommendation to the capital city police officer of Lahore for approval.

On Sep 12, the Lahore High Court had directed traffic police to take stern action against underage drivers and seek undertaking from their parents before releasing the violators.

Justice Ali Akbar Qureshi directed the police to take action against parents of the underage drivers in case of repeated violations.

The judge was hearing a petition highlighting a drastic increase in road accidents due to non-compliance of traffic rules and plying of motorbikes and motorcycle-rickshaw in the city. Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) retired Capt Liaqat was present in the court.

He also directed the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) to run a campaign on television channels to create awareness about traffic laws among the masses.

In 2016, then chief minister Punjab had approved the introduction of ‘camera integrated fining’ on traffic rules violations in the province.

The chief minister had also approved increase in all traffic violations fine for motorcyclists (over-speeding, red-lane violation, etc) by Rs100 besides increasing fine for juvenile driving from Rs300 to Rs500.