Business Desk 
Dec 03, 2025
The Punjab government has, in principle, decided to issue motorcycle licences and smart cards to 16-year-olds, officials confirmed.
The move comes after a controversial province-wide traffic crackdown sparked public backlash, with over 4,600 cases and nearly 3,100 arrests in just 72 hours, many involving schoolchildren.
Parents argued that such campaigns served only to create unfair criminal records for minors that could affect their futures. Many described the arrests as completely unnecessary and disproportionate.
The CM office said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed strong displeasure over the handcuffing of minors on account of traffic violations.
The government would start issuing motorcycle licences and smart cards to young riders and kick off awareness week for students in Punjab.
The new rules also mandate a warning for first-time offenders instead of a fine for not wearing a helmet.
For the first time, traffic authorities will also use drones and body cameras to monitor violations and ensure more transparency in their work.
CM called upon parents to educate kids about the traffic rules and road safety, making it clear that the purpose of the crackdown is implementing the law, not penalising the youngsters.
She said many young riders were never guided regarding the use of helmets and safe riding.
