Web Desk: Amendments have been proposed to the Provincial Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965 and Motor Vehicle Rules 1969 by The Punjab Police Department. The proposal seeks to introduce a driving permit for juveniles aged 16 to 18. Through this permit, officials say a regulated system for teenage riders. This will also make about an estimated seven million youths eligible to drive.
Two summaries have been submitted by Inspector General of Police Dr. Usman Anwar through the Home Department to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for approval. The proposals also propose changes regarding seat belts. As of now seat belts are only compulsory in a few notified roads, the department want seatbelts to compulsory on all public roads.
According to the department the lack of legal pathways for juvenile motorcycle riders has created increased safety risks and enforcement problems. It is argued by them that a structured permit system will promote mobility, reduce underage riding and improve compliance.
Athar Waheed, Lahore Chief Traffic Officer, noted that many countries allow restricted or supervised motorcycle permits for teenagers. He is also the one who drafted the summaries.
On public roads, under current laws individuals must be 18 to ride a motorcycle under current law. Due to this law according to the department the younger riders have been left unregulated which has contributed rising violations. The proposal seeks to bring this age group under a monitored and lawful system.
It is also emphasized by the police that removing the phrase “notified roads” from section 89-B would strengthen road-safety enforcement and eliminate ambiguity across Punjab.
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