The Punjab Cabinet has approved major amendments to the Motor Vehicle Ordinance of 1965, introducing stricter penalties and modern traffic laws to enhance road safety across the province.
According to the summary forwarded to the Punjab Assembly, both motorcycle riders and passengers will now be required to wear helmets, making helmet use mandatory for everyone on a bike — not just the driver.
The revised ordinance also aims to digitize traffic enforcement, with the legalization of digital challans and computerized driving licenses to improve efficiency and transparency.
💸 New Fine Structure
Under the new proposal, existing fines — currently between Rs. 200 and Rs. 1,000 — will be increased up to Rs. 20,000.
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Rs. 2,000 fine for motorcycles
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Rs. 5,000 fine for cars up to 2000cc
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Rs. 20,000 fine for vehicles above 2000cc
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Rs. 15,000 fine for commercial or public transport vehicles
Traffic signal violations could now cost drivers between Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 15,000, while using a mobile phone while driving may lead to fines up to Rs. 15,000.
⚠️ License Suspension System Introduced
The Punjab government also plans to introduce a point-based violation system. Drivers who accumulate 20 penalty points will face license suspension ranging from six months to one year, depending on the severity of the offenses.
Officials say the reforms are aimed at reducing road accidents, promoting helmet safety, and ensuring accountability among drivers across Punjab.
