RAWALPINDI: The traffic police have decided to make a significant increase in fines for motorcycle riders driving without helmet throughout Punjab.

According to the decision, fine on people driving motorcycles without helmets will be increased from Rs200 to Rs2,000.

This was decided in a meeting which was presided over by Additional Inspector General of Police (AIG) Traffic Mirza Faran Baig and attended by chief traffic officers (CTOs) and district traffic officers on Zoom.

It was directed that the fine for non-use of helmets would be enhanced by 900pc and this order would be applicable throughout Punjab. The updated fine amount will also be implemented in Rawalpindi district, however, a notification in this regard has yet to be issued by the City Traffic Police (CTP) in Rawalpindi.

The AIG directed strict action against motorcycle riders without helmets. The aim of launching a crackdown against motorcycle riders without helmets was to save lives.

AIG Mirza Faran Baig said following the court orders, a fine of Rs2,000 would be imposed on motorcycle riders without helmets.

On the orders of interim Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi and IG Punjab, AIG Mirza Faran Baig issued orders to all officers to take strict action against smoke-emitting vehicles to curb smog and environmental pollution. In order to prevent accidents, the implementation of traffic rules should be ensured in every case, AIG Mirza Faran Baig said.

He said police should take more positive steps to facilitate citizens in getting driving licences.

He also directed the traffic police to increase the number of service centres and driving schools across the province to facilitate the public. Mr Baig warned that he should not have to receive any complaints from citizens regarding the provision of driving licence services.

Published in Dawn, October 11th, 2023