Breaking News Punjab to Introduce New Mandatory Rule for Motorcyclists

New Mandatory Rule for Motorcyclists

New Mandatory Rule for Motorcyclists

New Mandatory Rule for Motorcyclists,The provincial government of Punjab has approved a major overhaul of the Provincial Motor Vehicles Ordinance, 1965, with sweeping amendments aimed at enhancing road safety for motorcyclists and other road users. These changes—contained in a 20-point summary—have been approved by the Punjab Cabinet and forwarded to the Punjab Assembly for legislative ratification.

What’s New: Helmet Mandate and Modernised Traffic System

One of the most important changes is that both motorcycle riders and their passengers will be legally required to wear helmets. This extends compulsory helmet use beyond just the driver, ensuring that every person on a motorcycle is protected.

In addition, the amendments introduce a modernised traffic-management framework:

  • Digital e-challans will be legalised, allowing offenders to receive traffic tickets electronically.
  • Driving licences will transition into computerised and digital formats to ensure authenticity and easier verification.
  • A point-based system will be implemented where drivers losing a set number of points will face licence suspension.

These changes reflect a major shift from the outdated 1965 ordinance toward a technology-enabled and stricter enforcement regime.

Revised Penalties and Fine Structure

Under the old system, most fines ranged between Rs. 200 and Rs. 1,000—an amount that had little deterrent effect. The new proposal increases these penalties significantly, making traffic violations far costlier and encouraging safer driving habits.

Summary of Key Penalty Revisions

Vehicle/Violation TypeProposed FineAdditional Notes
Motorcycle rider or passenger without helmetRs 2,000Applies to all riders and passengers on two-wheelers.
Car up to 2,000 cc (overspeeding)Rs 5,000Applies to private vehicles under 2,000 cc.
Vehicle above 2,000 cc (overspeeding)Rs 20,000Applies to private vehicles above 2,000 cc.
Commercial or public transport vehicle (overspeeding)Rs 15,000Applies to buses, taxis, and other public transport vehicles.
Traffic-signal violationRs 2,000 – 15,000Amount varies by severity of violation.
Using a mobile phone while drivingUp to Rs 15,000New cap for mobile-while-driving violations.
Point-based licence suspensionLoss of 20 points triggers suspension for 6 months – 1 yearBased on the seriousness of repeated offenses.

Applicability: These new penalties apply to all motorists in Punjab, including motorcyclists, car owners, and commercial transport operators.

Effective Date: The new rules will come into effect once the Punjab Assembly formally passes the amendments and the government issues a notification.

Why These Changes Matter

The main objective behind these reforms is to reduce the growing number of road accidents, especially those involving motorcycles. According to recent statistics, motorcyclists account for a large proportion of traffic fatalities in Punjab.By making helmets mandatory for both riders and passengers, the government aims to significantly decrease head injuries and fatalities. Similarly, introducing e-challans, computerised licences, and a point-based penalty system will help reduce corruption and make traffic enforcement more transparent.However, successful implementation will depend on effective awareness campaigns, consistent enforcement by traffic police, and the availability of quality helmets in the market. Public cooperation will be vital for achieving safer roads under the new system.

Implementation Timeline and Eligibility Table

#MilestoneExpected Time FrameApplies To
1Approval by Punjab CabinetNovember 2025All motorists and road users
2Forwarding of amendments to Punjab AssemblyLate November 2025Legislative process underway
3Legalisation of e-challans and computerised licencesAfter official notificationAll drivers and vehicles
4Helmet rule enforcement for riders and passengersUpon law enactmentAll two-wheeler users
5Point-based system activationConcurrent with full implementationAll licence holders

Note: The exact enforcement date will be announced after official gazette publication. Citizens should stay updated through the Punjab Safe Cities Authority and provincial traffic police notifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When will the new helmet rule become enforceable?
The Cabinet has already approved the amendments, but they will only become enforceable once the Punjab Assembly passes the bill and the government issues a notification.

Q2: Will the increased fines apply immediately?
No. The proposed fines will come into effect after the official notification. Until then, the current fine structure remains in place.

Q3: What happens if a driver loses 20 points under the new system?
Drivers who accumulate 20 penalty points will face licence suspension ranging from six months to one year, depending on the severity and frequency of their violations.

Final Word

The Punjab government’s decision to introduce stricter traffic laws represents a major step toward improving road safety and modernising the province’s transport system. Mandatory helmet use for all motorcycle passengers, higher fines for violations, and a digital enforcement system will collectively encourage more responsible driving behaviour.While the law’s success will depend on effective enforcement and public cooperation, the reforms mark a significant turning point in Punjab’s commitment to reducing traffic accidents and saving lives. Motorists should prepare now by understanding the new rules and ensuring compliance once they officially take effect.

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