Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif chaired a meeting to address traffic-related issues by curbing traffic violations. She directed the authorities concerned to stop arresting underage students for committing traffic violations, and expressed strong displeasure over incidents of handcuffing children for breaking traffic rules.
She also directed the relevant authorities to issue smart cards and motorcycle driving licences to 16-year-old students. It was agreed in the meeting that traffic police will observe an awareness week for general public, especially students across the province.
Authorities concerned briefed Chief Minister Punjab that in case of not wearing a helmet, a warning challan will be issued for the first offence. They added that drone cameras and body cams have been introduced for the first time to monitor traffic. She said that parents must play an active role in educating children about traffic laws. She added that traffic rules are made to protect lives. Therefore, people must change their habits for their own safety. She urged upon citizens to play their vigorous role in ensuring compliance to traffic laws. She noted that the government does not want to arrest innocent children, but adherence to law is necessary under any circumstance, adding that it is not children’s fault as they have not been conditioned to wear helmets. She urged upon parents to educate their children about the importance and necessity of wearing helmets for road safety.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif further directed traffic police to respect dignity of citizens and avoid harshness or misconduct while dealing with them. She was apprised that 2,445 police vehicles were found violating traffic rules.
Separately, Maryam Nawaz Sharif strongly condemned terrorist attack on a police squad in Bannu. She expressed heartfelt sympathies and condolences with the bereaved families of Assistant Commissioner Shah Wali and four civilians who lost their lives in the tragic incident. She also prayed for swift recovery of the injured.