CM Maryam Nawaz Approves Motorcycle Licences and Smart Cards for 16-Year-Olds

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has approved a new policy allowing 16-year-olds to obtain motorcycle driving licences and smart identity cards, marking a shift in how traffic violations involving minors are handled.

First-Time Offenses to Be Met with Warnings

Under the revised approach, first-time infractions such as riding without a helmet will result in warnings rather than fines. The Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasized that children should not be handcuffed or detained for minor traffic violations, calling such practices unacceptable.

Traffic Monitoring and Public Awareness

To support the initiative, traffic police across the province will launch awareness campaigns targeting students and young riders. The campaigns will include the use of drones and body cameras for traffic monitoring, a first for the region. The goal is to promote road safety while avoiding punitive measures against minors.

Judicial Support for Reform

The move follows earlier intervention by Lahore High Court Chief Justice Aalia Neelum, who directed police to stop registering criminal cases against underage drivers. Justice Neelum had called for awareness efforts and cautions before any legal proceedings, stating that repeated violations should be addressed through lawful channels.

Role of Parents and Police Conduct

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also urged parents to take responsibility for educating their children about traffic rules. “We don’t want to punish innocent children, but following the law is important,” she said. “It’s the parents’ duty to instill safe habits like wearing helmets and obeying traffic signals.”

She further instructed traffic police to treat citizens respectfully and avoid misconduct during enforcement. The policy aims to balance public safety with the protection of minors from unnecessary legal consequences, encouraging responsible behavior from an early age.