Web desk: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed authorities to stop arresting underage students for traffic violations.
She expressed strong displeasure over incidents where children were handcuffed for breaking traffic rules.
The provincial government has also decided in principle to issue smart cards and motorcycle driving licences to 16-year-olds.
Traffic police across Punjab will observe an awareness week for the public, especially students. For not wearing a helmet, the first violation will result in a warning ticket.
Punjab has also begun using drones and body cameras for traffic monitoring for the first time.
Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz
Maryam Nawaz said that parents must play a greater role in educating their children about traffic rules.
She added that traffic laws exist to protect lives and that people must change their habits for their own safety. She urged every citizen to support enforcement efforts.
The chief minister said the government does not want to punish young children, but following the law is essential.
She added that it is not the children’s fault because adults have not trained them to wear helmets.
She advised parents to teach their children the importance of helmets and road safety. She also directed the traffic police to treat citizens with respect and avoid rude behaviour.
Officials informed Maryam Nawaz that 2,445 police vehicles have also been penalised for violating traffic rules.
