The Punjab Traffic Police has announced a major policy shift, declaring that no FIR will be registered against underage drivers, and instead, criminal charges will be brought against the owners of the vehicles they are driving.
The directive was issued by DIG Traffic Punjab Muhammad Waqas Nazir, who circulated a special message to all Chief Traffic Officers (CTOs) and District Traffic Officers (DTOs). The decision follows instructions from the Punjab chief minister, aiming to enhance road safety and protect the future of young people.|
Under the new guidelines, minors caught driving will receive a traffic violation ticket only, while the vehicle owner will face legal action—including the lodging of an FIR—for allowing an underage driver behind the wheel.
“We will safeguard the future of our youth,” DIG Waqas Nazir said, stressing that accountability will be enforced at the level where the responsibility actually lies.
He also ordered strict action against commercial, public service and government vehicles violating traffic laws. Officers have been instructed to ensure courteous conduct during enforcement operations, with mandatory use of body cameras in the field to maintain transparency.
To strengthen public awareness, the DIG directed all districts to install banners, billboards and standees promoting road safety across the province. He added that zero tolerance remains in place for traffic violations, with discipline on the roads being a top priority.
“Law applies equally to everyone,” he said, reiterating that maintaining order on Punjab’s roads is central to the traffic police’s mission.
