The Rawalpindi district administration has unleashed a strategy to ban Qingqi rickshaws from the city’s streets. The crackdown will unfold in two phases, targeting manufacturing factories first and implementing a complete ban on these three-wheelers as a mode of public transport and loading vehicles.

Qingqi Rickshaws to Face Ban

Caretaker Punjab Minister for Transport, Ibrahim Hassan Murad, announced the government’s decision to ban Qingqi rickshaws, citing illegal manufacturing and the need for regulation. The move is part of a larger plan to eliminate unapproved rickshaws, with a 30-day warning issued initially.

Crackdown Initiates

Caretaker Minister Murad emphasized the initiation of a crackdown against those producing illegal motorcycles and loader rickshaws. The focus is on unapproved rickshaws, with a future ban on local manufacturing and the regularization of rickshaw manufacturing companies.

Rawalpindi’s district administration is forming empowered teams, bringing together various departments like Regional Transport Authority, City Traffic Police, Special Branch, and District Police. These teams will take action against manufacturing units and enforce the ban on motorcycle rickshaws.

Sealing Factories

The first phase targets manufacturing factories, intending to seal them to curb the production of Qingqi rickshaws. Police officials will be deployed on routes to impound any unapproved rickshaws, imposing heavy fines on drivers.

Policy Implementation

The Regional Transport Authority’s Secretary, Arshad Ali, stated their adherence to the Punjab government’s policy. An alternative policy is being formulated to abolish motorcycle rickshaws, aligning with the larger plan to eliminate unregulated vehicles from the streets.

What are your thoughts on this crackdown? Is it practical to ban Qingqi across the province without providing an alternative? Or are unregistered Qingqi rickshaws on roads such a big risk that this crackdown is justified? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!