Punjab’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Usman Anwar, has issued a firm warning to transporters threatening a province-wide strike. He stressed that the police will enforce the law without compromise, regardless of protests or pressure.
Driving Without a License: A License to Kill
Dr. Anwar criticized the strike, describing it as an attempt to justify illegal driving. Driving without a valid license invites death and serious accidents, he said. Moreover, he highlighted that every civilized country strictly enforces traffic laws. It is unacceptable anywhere to defend law-breaking, yet strikes are being used to protest enforcement, he added.
He labeled unlicensed driving a license to kill, emphasizing the severe risks to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. According to the National Highway & Motorway Police, Pakistan records nearly 6,000 road fatalities each year, with many cases involving unlicensed or reckless drivers. Consequently, authorities view strict enforcement as essential to prevent further loss of life.
Police Will Impound Violators
Dr. Anwar warned that police will seize vehicles operating without proper licenses. If drivers defy the law, we will remove them from the roads, he said. Punjab Police has already fined over 2,600 officers in just six days to enforce traffic discipline, showing their commitment to strict law enforcement. Read more. He also noted that authorities had already extended leniency, but repeated violations would result in strict action.
Furthermore, he stressed that public safety remains the police’s top priority. We cannot compromise citizens’ lives, especially children’s, he emphasized.
Risks to School Children
Dr. Anwar expressed concern about the potential dangers of a transporters’ strike. He warned that school vans might operate irresponsibly, putting children at risk. A strike does not stop vehicles; instead, it encourages careless driving, he explained. He added that police will not yield to protests, threats, or blackmail when children’s safety is at stake.
Zero Tolerance on Traffic Violations
The IGP reaffirmed that Punjab Police will maintain a zero-tolerance policy on traffic violations. We will enforce traffic rules strictly. No shortcuts or exceptions will be allowed, he said. In addition, this policy aligns with recent provincial measures aimed at reducing accidents through stricter traffic regulations.
Transporters Protest Heavy Fines
Meanwhile, transporters across Punjab have announced a strike to oppose fines under the Traffic Ordinance 2025. Leaders of the Pakistan Transport United Action Committee held a press conference in Lahore demanding the ordinance’s immediate withdrawal. They argue that the ordinance imposes unfair financial burdens and penalizes transporters excessively.
The dispute highlights tension between public safety enforcement and the transport sector’s concerns. While authorities prioritize citizen protection, transporters warn that steep fines may harm livelihoods, especially in smaller towns where enforcement resources are limited.
Road Safety Challenges in Pakistan
Pakistan continues to face high road accident rates. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), road traffic injuries are a leading cause of death among young people. The Punjab government’s ordinances aim to curb reckless driving, overloaded vehicles, and unlicensed operators. However, these measures have sparked controversy within the transport sector.
In conclusion, Dr. Anwar’s warning makes it clear that public safety comes first. Therefore, police will strictly enforce traffic laws to protect children and commuters. As the strike approaches, authorities are preparing to ensure that roads remain safe and well-regulated.
