Punjab issues over 76,000 challans in 48-hour traffic crackdown

Punjab traffic police issued over 76,000 challans and collected fines exceeding Rs71.2 million across the province in 48 hours as part of a crackdown on traffic violations, a spokesperson said on Saturday. The operation was launched under a zero-tolerance policy implemented on orders of DIG Traffic Muhammad Waqas Nazir.

Police registered 1,402 FIRs for serious traffic violations and impounded over 13,000 vehicles, while 1,390 violators were imprisoned, the spokesperson said.

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The drive targeted multiple categories of offenders. Authorities took action against 11,700 people driving without licenses and over 4,000 for one-way violations. More than 12,000 motorcyclists were challaned for riding without helmets.

Officials also impounded and fined 1,397 public transport vehicles for passenger overloading, while over 3,000 underage drivers faced legal action.

As part of smog prevention measures, authorities challaned and impounded over 7,200 vehicles. Police fined 1,500 unsafe vehicles and impounded 421 of them.

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The operation extended beyond traffic violations, with police registering 36 FIRs against drug addicts and beggars disrupting traffic flow. Authorities also acted against 3,875 people with non-standard number plates and 1,262 for illegal parking.

DIG Traffic Punjab Muhammad Waqas Nazir said the crackdown will continue without discrimination across the province. He urged citizens to observe traffic laws to avoid penalties, adding that the purpose is to protect human lives and ensure organised traffic.