Punjab is preparing major changes to its traffic laws after the provincial cabinet approved wide-ranging amendments to the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965. The revised draft, which includes 20 important updates, has now been sent to the Punjab Assembly for final approval.
These changes aim to improve road safety, modernize enforcement, and reduce violations across the province.
Mandatory Helmets for All Motorcycle Riders
One of the most important updates is a new mandatory helmet rule.
What’s changing?
- Both the motorcycle rider and the passenger will be required to wear helmets.
- Helmet use will no longer apply to only the person driving — everyone on the bike must comply.
Officials say the rule is intended to reduce head injuries and deaths in motorcycle accidents, which remain a leading cause of road fatalities in Punjab.
Digital Challans and Computerized Driving Licenses
Punjab is also moving toward a more modern traffic management system.
The proposal includes:
- Legal recognition of digital challans
- Introduction of computerized driving licences
These steps aim to reduce manual errors, increase transparency, and make enforcement more efficient
Higher Fine Structure Replacing Old Penalties
The current fines — which range from Rs. 200 to Rs. 1,000 — were considered outdated.
The new structure increases penalties significantly, with fines now ranging between Rs. 2,000 and Rs. 20,000, depending on the violation.
Also Read: New Traffic Fines in Punjab: Updated Penalties for Drivers
Proposed New Fines for Overspeeding
Overspeeding fines have been updated based on vehicle type:
- Motorcycles: Rs. 2,000
- Cars up to 2000cc: Rs. 5,000
- Vehicles above 2000cc: Rs. 20,000
- Commercial / Public Transport Vehicles: Rs. 15,000
Officials say heavier vehicles and public transport pose greater risks, which is why their penalties are higher.
Traffic Signal Violations and Mobile Phone Use
The revised ordinance also proposes:
- Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 15,000 for traffic signal violations
- Up to Rs. 15,000 for using a mobile phone while driving
Both violations are common causes of road accidents and major contributors to traffic congestion.
New Point-Based Licence System
One of the most significant additions is a point-based driving licence system.
How it works:
- Each traffic offence will deduct a specific number of points.
- A driver who loses 20 points will face suspension of their licence.
- Suspension can last from six months to one year, depending on the severity of violations.
This system encourages responsible driving and creates long-term consequences for repeated offenders.