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The Punjab Cabinet has approved major amendments to the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965, aiming to strengthen road safety laws and introduce modern traffic management systems. A summary containing 20 key changes has been forwarded to the Punjab Assembly for final approval.
Under the new rules, helmets will be mandatory for both motorcycle riders and passengers, marking a significant move to reduce road fatalities. The amendments also propose digital challans and computerized driving licenses, streamlining enforcement through technology.
The fine structure will be increased drastically replacing the current range of Rs200–1,000 with Rs2,000–20,000, depending on the type of vehicle and violation.
| Vehicle Type / Violation | Proposed Fine (Rs) |
| Motorcycle | 2,000 |
| Car (up to 2000cc) | 5,000 |
| Car (above 2000cc) | 20,000 |
| Commercial/Public Vehicle | 15,000 (overspeeding) |
| Signal Violation | 2,000–15,000 |
| Mobile Use While Driving | Up to 15,000 |
The new system will also introduce a point-based license system, where accumulating 20 violation points can lead to license suspension for up to one year.
An official from the Transport Department stated,
“The new law aims to ensure responsible driving and protect lives on Punjab’s roads through stricter enforcement and technology-based monitoring.”
These reforms align with Punjab’s broader plan to digitize traffic control and curb rising road accidents, particularly involving motorcyclists who make up a majority of road casualties in the province.
