2 min read
Punjab: The Punjab government has implemented a 60km/h speed limit for motorcycles across the province, including Lahore, after approval from the provincial cabinet. The Transport Department has officially issued a notification enforcing the new limit, warning that violators will face fines or legal action. This initiative aims to curb motorcycle-related accidents and improve overall road safety in the region.
The Lahore Traffic Police recently implemented a mandatory helmet rule for all motorcycle riders and passengers, irrespective of gender. Athar Waheed, the Chief Traffic Officer, highlighted the importance of this initiative in preventing fatalities resulting from head injuries in accidents.
A one-week grace period has been provided for women riders to adhere to the new helmet regulation. Following this timeframe, rigorous enforcement measures, including penalties, were declared for those who violate the rules.
“Many motorcycle riders, especially online bike riders, see buying a second helmet as a financial burden, but this step is vital for saving lives,” CTO Waheed stated.
Punjab recorded an enormous 1,170 road accidents, with motorbikes accounting for 73% of these incidents. Official statistics reveal 17 lives lost and 1,330 injuries. The breakdown of vehicles involved includes 1,067 motorbikes, 74 rickshaws, 125 cars, 37 vans, 16 buses, 24 trucks, and 111 other vehicles.
Rescue teams provided on-site treatment to 798 victims, while 532 required hospitalisation. The casualty figures comprised 724 adult drivers, 52 underage drivers, 161 pedestrians, and 462 passengers. Lahore topped the list with 245 accidents impacting 296 individuals, followed by Faisalabad with 81 accidents and 100 victims.
Officials pointed out that Lahore has eight million registered vehicles, with motorcycles making up 53% of the total. This significant presence of motorcycles on the roads underscores the urgent need for helmet enforcement as a crucial measure for accident prevention.
