By Abdullah Ahmad
LAHORE; The Punjab cabinet on Friday approved a draft proposing amendments to the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965 and forwarded it to the Punjab Assembly for further consideration. The proposed changes aim to enhance road safety and significantly increase fines for traffic violations.
The draft suggests amendments in 20 sections of the ordinance. Currently, traffic fines range from Rs200 to Rs1,000. Under the proposed amendments, fines could increase to between Rs2,000 and Rs20,000, depending on the nature of the violation.
For overspeeding, motorcyclists may face a fine of Rs2,000. Vehicles with engines up to 2,000cc could be fined Rs5,000, while vehicles with engines exceeding 2,000cc may incur fines up to Rs20,000.
Violations of traffic signals would result in fines ranging from Rs2,000 to Rs15,000, and breaching zebra crossing rules could bring a fine of Rs10,000.
Using a mobile phone while driving would attract fines of Rs2,000 to Rs15,000, and authorities may also penalize underage drivers.
The draft also makes it mandatory for drivers to wear seat belts and requires the pillion rider on motorcycles to wear a helmet. The proposal includes digitalisation of the challan and driving license system to improve efficiency and accountability.
Additionally, a point-based system is being proposed, where 2 to 4 points will be deducted for each violation. A driver losing 20 points will face suspension of their license for six months to a year.
