Traffic Fines in Punjab: Public Safety or Revenue Target?

Spread the love

Written by: Chaudhry Muhammad Altaf Shahid

Public concern is growing across Punjab over the manner in which traffic fines are issued. Many citizens believe that traffic police officers are under pressure to meet daily or monthly targets. As a result, some motorcyclists and drivers feel that they are being stopped and fined even when they have all the necessary documents and have not committed any obvious violations.

These complaints are becoming common on the roads across the province. Videos of daily arguments between the public and the traffic police are being shared on social media, especially TikTok. Such incidents not only damage public trust in law enforcement agencies but also create unnecessary tension between citizens and the police.

More worryingly, allegations are also circulating on social media that on some occasions, citizens are being asked to transfer money to personal bank accounts or pay through unofficial receipts, instead of collecting fines as per the official procedure. If these allegations are true, they should be investigated immediately and transparently, as official fines should be collected only through authorized channels.

Punjab is currently facing serious economic challenges. Many families are struggling to meet food, fuel and other essential expenses. Traffic fines become an additional financial burden for low-income workers, drivers and labourers, who are already struggling. Moreover, this situation has also led to some unfortunate incidents where some people burnt their motorcycles under severe financial pressure, while in some cases, tragedies like heart attacks were also reported as people could not afford to pay the fines.

The purpose of traffic enforcement should always be to improve road safety, educate the public, and ensure compliance with the law—not to create the impression that revenue collection has become the primary objective. Honest policing strengthens public trust, while unfair practices undermine that trust. At the same time, it is important to remember that in such cases, the credibility of the government is also at stake, and if public trust is shaken, the repercussions will ripple through the entire system.

I respectfully request the Honorable Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, and the Inspector General of Police to take note of these concerns raised by citizens. An independent review of the traffic enforcement process, investigation into allegations of unofficial fines, and strict action against those involved in any corruption can go a long way in restoring public trust.

The people of Punjab deserve a transparent, accountable, and fair policing system where the law applies equally to all, government revenues are protected, and every citizen is treated with dignity and respect.

Post Views: 19