Punjab unveils major traffic overhaul after 60 years, CM announces 20 key reforms
Pakistan
The meeting also reviewed reports on helmet violations, rooftop travel, and other traffic offences
LAHORE (DUNYA NEWS) – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced, for the first time in six decades, a comprehensive package of 20 major reforms aimed at making travel safer and easier across the province.
During a detailed meeting chaired by the chief minister on modern traffic planning, road safety, and overall management, several major decisions were made. Under the new policy, any vehicle repeatedly receiving traffic fines will be auctioned. Government vehicles will no longer be exempt from the law, and those violating traffic regulations will face heavy penalties.
Maryam Nawaz granted a 30-day grace period to eliminate one-way violations across Punjab and instructed the redesign of U-turns to make roads safer and more organised. It was also agreed that the families of those who lose their lives in road accidents will receive compensation (diyat) without delay.
It was decided that marriage halls without adequate parking will not be allowed to operate, and all halls must ensure proper parking facilities. A strict crackdown on underage driving will be launched, and vehicle owners could face up to six months in jail if minors are found behind the wheel.
The chief minister also ordered an end to passengers riding on bus rooftops across Punjab and imposed a complete ban on Qingqi rickshaws on five model roads in Lahore. She set a decisive 30-day deadline to significantly improve Lahore’s traffic situation.
The meeting also reviewed reports on helmet violations, rooftop travel, and other traffic offences.
Maryam Nawaz said that vehicles speeding to reach intercity destinations faster will face action. She stressed that traffic management must improve across Lahore and all other cities, adding that no leniency will be shown — every violator will be fined.
She warned the traffic police that this is their final chance, saying, “If you cannot deliver, we will have to create a new department.” She added that despite improvements in many areas, traffic remains chaotic, and continued violations weaken the writ of the state.
