Loader, Qingqi rickshaws banned in Punjab districts

The government has enforced a series of strict new traffic regulations across the Rawalpindi Division, imposing a complete ban on loader and Qingqi rickshaws in all districts — Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Attock, Murree, Talagang and Chakwal.

Carrying passengers on the rooftops of buses and wagons has also been declared a punishable offence.

A large-scale crackdown against violators will begin from Monday. Police have been directed to seize all banned rickshaws, which will be impounded at police stations. Cases will be registered against anyone riding a motorcycle or driving a vehicle without a helmet, a valid driving licence as well as a fitness certificate.

Parents of underage drivers will also face legal consequences. Wrong-way driving, overspeeding and other dangerous traffic violations will now result in criminal charges. Overloading or transporting passengers on the rooftops of public transport vehicles will also lead to prosecution.

The deputy commissioner, CPO and CTO have issued strict instructions to traffic police and local police stations to launch the operation without delay.

Authorities have additionally banned the practice of modifying and converting motorcycles into makeshift commercial rickshaws. Police have been ordered to seize all such modified motorcycles.

The enforcement drive aims to prevent rising road accidents, regulate illegal transport, and ensure public safety.

Read More: Punjab to auction vehicles of repeat violators

Vehicles of repreat violators will be auctioned

Punjab has launched a crackdown on traffic violations and strict penalties are being introduced as the province announced to auction vehicles over repeat traffic violations. The province introduced 20 major amendments in six-decade-old Traffic Act.

The government approved a 30-day grace period to eliminate one-way violations, and directed the relevant authorities to remodel U-turns to improve road safety. It was also agreed that compensation for families of those killed in road accidents will be paid immediately.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif stressed that marriage halls will not be allowed to operate without having proper parking facilities for guests.

The participants approved a province-wide crackdown against underage drivers. Officials said, in case of underage driving, the vehicle owner may face up to six-month imprisonment.

The chief minister ordered a crackdown on buses carrying passengers on rooftops. Relevant officials apprised her that in order to improve traffic flow and ensure public safety, a ban on motorcycle rickshaws will be enforced on five model roads in Lahore.

The chief minister set a 30-day deadline to streamline traffic in Lahore. She said vehicles dangerously speeding will face stern action.