Punjab Govt Gives Three Days Relief in Challan Amidst Long Queues at License Centers

In an effort to curb underage driving, the City Traffic Police (CTP) has escalated its crackdown, leading to a surge in citizens flocking to license centers in Lahore and various other cities to avoid fines or getting arrested for not having a valid driving license.

The stringent enforcement prompted a significant influx of individuals waiting in lengthy queues for hours each day, prompting authorities in Punjab to declare a temporary respite for citizens grappling with extended waiting times and the cumbersome process of obtaining a driving license.

Recognizing the challenges faced by people in acquiring licenses promptly, the government has announced a grace period of three days during which no traffic challans will be issued. However, this relief is applicable only to those who possess a valid license token.

During his visit to the Police Facilitation Center in Lahore, Punjab’s interim Chief Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, acknowledged the grievances expressed by a large number of commuters. Concerns about delays attributed to a sluggish networking system and prolonged queues were brought to Naqvi’s attention.

In response, the CM directed the DG Punjab IT Board to expedite the licensing process and improve the efficiency of the system. Naqvi further assured the public that no traffic challans would be issued to license token holders for the next three days.

It’s worth noting that the interim government had previously announced a significant hike in learner’s driving license fees, raising them from Rs60 to Rs1,000, effective from January 1, 2024.

The entire crackdown against underage drivers and anyone operating a vehicle without a valid driving license started after the tragic incident in DHA Lahore, where a 14-year-old hit another vehicle and killed six family members as part of some revenge.