Lahore’s Chief Traffic Officer, Ammara Athar, spearheads a commendable initiative to ease the hassle of attempting driving test and obtaining a driving license. Testing camps for driving test have been opened in four different locations in Lahore, including Gaddafi Stadium, Fortress Stadium, Defense Phase 6 Head Office, and Jilani Park Parking. Operating from 09:00 am to 05:00 pm, these camps aim to streamline the testing process, mitigating overcrowding and long lines.

سی ٹی او لاہور عمارہ اطہر کا رش اور عوامی سہولت کے پیش نظر ایک اور احسن اقدام، شہر کے 04 مختلف مقامات قذافی اسٹیڈیم، فوٹریس اسٹیڈیم، ڈیفنس فیز 6 ہیڈ آفس اور جیلانی پارک پارکنگ میں ٹیسٹنگ کیمپس لگائے جائیں گیں،شہری صبح 09 بجے سے شام 05 بجے تک لائسنس ٹیسٹ کےلئے تشریف لاسکتے ہیں، pic.twitter.com/wqI19a6FBs

— Lahore Traffic Police (@ctplahore) December 12, 2023

Learner’s Licenses at Your Fingertips

Effective from December 6, 2023, Lahore Traffic Police, under the guidance of the Inspector General of Punjab, introduced a revolutionary change in obtaining learner’s licenses. Front desks of police stations across Lahore will now be the convenient hubs for securing learner’s licenses, simplifying the process for the public.

Driving Test & Driving License Fee

While the move towards accessibility is lauded, it comes with a price. Starting January 1, 2024, the government of Punjab announced a substantial increase in license fees for cars and motorcycles, skyrocketing from Rs 60 to Rs 1000. This significant rise raises eyebrows and prompts a wave of criticism from citizens.

Understanding the potential impact on the public, the government offers a grace period until December 31, 2023, allowing applicants to secure their licenses at the existing rates. The deadline serves as a crucial reminder for aspiring drivers to act promptly and avoid the impending fee hike.

Public Reaction and Social Media Storm

The decision to increase license fees by 1566% has triggered a storm of criticism on social media platforms. Citizens express their dissatisfaction, questioning the timing of the increase amidst growing compliance with traffic regulations. The controversy highlights the need for transparent communication and public engagement in such significant policy changes.

As Lahore undergoes transformative changes in its licensing landscape, the dual developments reflect the authorities’ commitment to enhancing efficiency. While the convenience of obtaining licenses has improved, the fee hike controversy underscores the delicate balance between facilitating the public and ensuring financial sustainability.