Traffic fines in Punjab set for major increase

The Punjab government will introduce stricter penalties for traffic violations, with higher fines and a new license suspension system.

Once implemented, the new system will introduce heavy fines and a points-based driving license system to improve road safety. Under the proposed plan, fines for 25 different traffic violations will range between Rs2000 and Rs20000. Drivers will also lose two to four points depending on the violation. If a motorist loses 20 points within a year, their license will be suspended for two months to one year.

Overspeeding will carry fines from Rs2000 to Rs20000 along with a four-point deduction. Violating traffic signals or driving in the wrong direction will result in fines between Rs2000 and Rs15000, with four points cut. Rash driving will bring fines ranging from Rs3000 to Rs15000 and a four-point deduction.

Similarly, overloading vehicles will be penalized with fines of Rs2000 to Rs15000, while the use of pressure horns will carry fines between Rs2000 and Rs10000 along with two penalty points. Currently, fines are much lower, ranging from Rs100 to Rs. 500 in most cases, while courts allow up to Rs2000 in only five categories of violations. Officials explained that the new system will not only update fine amounts but also replace manual challaning with e-challaning for more transparency and efficiency.

Authorities believe that the stricter penalties and modern monitoring will help reduce accidents and encourage responsible driving across the province. The provincial cabinet’s approval will pave the way for the immediate enforcement of the new rules.