Punjab Police Crackdown: Over 63,900 Traffic Challans Issued in 24 Hours Amid Intensified Enforcement Drive
MuhammadSalis 
Massive enforcement campaign targets smoke-emitting vehicles and traffic violations as authorities adopt a zero-tolerance policy to combat smog and ensure road safety.
LAHORE – In an unprecedented mobilization of enforcement resources, the Punjab Police have issued over 63,900 traffic challans across the province within a single 24-hour period. The massive crackdown marks one of the most significant single-day enforcement drives in the province’s history, signaling a robust shift in strategy to tackle the dual crises of deteriorating air quality and rising road anarchy.
The heightened enforcement comes as Punjab, particularly its capital Lahore, grapples with hazardous smog levels. Under the directives of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. Usman Anwar, the traffic police have launched a comprehensive operation targeting not only general traffic violations but specifically focusing on environmental offenders contributing to the region’s toxic Air Quality Index (AQI).
Targeting Environmental Offenders
A significant portion of the citations issued during this 24-hour blitz were directed at smoke-emitting vehicles, which are cited as primary contributors to the thick smog blanketing the region. According to official data, thousands of heavy transport vehicles, public buses, and motorcycles were intercepted and fined for lacking fitness certificates or emitting excessive exhaust fumes.
“The current environmental situation is a public health emergency,” stated a Punjab Police spokesperson. “Our directive is clear: any vehicle adding to the smog crisis will not be permitted on the roads. This is no longer just about traffic flow; it is about the health and safety of millions of citizens.”
In addition to monetary fines, the crackdown utilized the Punjab Safe City Authority’s (PSCA) e-challan system to identify violators remotely, ensuring that enforcement was both physical and digital. Authorities also impounded hundreds of vehicles that failed to meet basic roadworthiness standards, sending a strong message to transport unions and private owners alike.
Broad-Spectrum Traffic Discipline
While environmental concerns spearheaded the drive, the 63,900 challans also encompassed a wide range of general traffic offenses. The crackdown heavily penalized driving without a license, one-way violations, and the non-use of helmets by motorcyclists.
The licensing branch of the traffic police has seen a concurrent surge in activity. With the fear of heavy fines and vehicle impoundment looming, citizens have flocked to licensing centers. In the same 24-hour window, the police reportedly processed tens of thousands of license applications, indicating that the enforcement drive is successfully pushing non-compliant drivers toward legalization.
Zero Tolerance Policy
IGP Dr. Usman Anwar has reiterated that the police force is moving beyond simple warnings. In a recent directive to District Police Officers (DPOs) and City Traffic Officers (CTOs), the IGP emphasized that the protection of citizens’ lives takes precedence over popularity.
“We are enforcing the law without discrimination,” the IGP remarked in a statement regarding the ongoing safety campaign. “Whether it is a juvenile driver risking their life or a commercial loader polluting our air, the law will take its course. We urge parents and business owners to take responsibility before the law forces them to.”
Future Implications
This record-breaking number of challans serves as a grim indicator of the scale of non-compliance on Punjab’s roads, but also as a testament to the state’s capability to enforce order when mobilized. Transport experts suggest that while such “blitz” operations are effective in the short term, sustaining this level of vigilance is crucial for long-term behavioral change.
As the winter season progresses and smog conditions potentially worsen, the Punjab Police have signaled that this intensity will not wane. Citizens are advised to ensure their vehicles are mechanically fit and their documentation is complete to avoid heavy penalties in the coming days.
Major Crackdown on Traffic Rules Violations in Punjab
This video provides visual context and verified reporting on the recent large-scale traffic enforcement operations in Punjab, highlighting the specific measures being taken against violators.
Related Links
- Video Report: Major Crackdown on Traffic Rules Violations in Punjab – Samaa TV provides visual coverage of the ongoing enforcement operations.
- Citizen’s Guide: PSCA E-Challan Fines & Traffic Offences in Punjab 2025: Complete Guide – A comprehensive guide to understanding the e-challan system, fine structures, and traffic rules in Punjab.
- Official Policy: SMOG Control Strategy 2024-25 – Punjab Agriculture Department – The official government document outlining the comprehensive strategy to combat smog in the province.
