The provincial government’s swift efforts to enhance road safety and the issuance of 74,000 driving licenses in a day are not the sole developments. Another noteworthy update pertains to a significant increase in license fees.

In a surprising move, the Lahore Traffic Police recently revealed that the provincial government has approved a substantial hike in driving license fees for both cars and motorcycles.

According to an official announcement on X, the caretaker Punjab government has decided to increase the fee by a staggering 1566%, soaring from Rs. 60 to Rs. 1000.

The controversial decision has ignited a storm of criticism on social media platforms. Many citizens express their dissatisfaction, arguing that the timing of the increase seems incongruous, given that more motorists are complying with traffic regulations.

The Massive Surge

According to an official announcement on X, the caretaker Punjab government has decided to increase the fee by a staggering 1566%, soaring from Rs. 60 to Rs. 1000.

The controversial decision has ignited a storm of criticism on social media platforms. Many citizens express their dissatisfaction, arguing that the timing of the increase seems incongruous, given that more motorists are complying with traffic regulations.

Netizens are particularly concerned that this steep fee surge might discourage responsible driving practices and unfairly burden law-abiding citizens actively contributing to road safety.

To add fuel to the fire, the traffic police clarified that citizens have until December 31 to obtain their licenses at the existing rate. Starting January 1, 2024, however, motorists will be obligated to pay the escalated fee of Rs. 1000.

Moreover, the city traffic police have recently upped fines for learner’s permit holders, imposing a Rs. 2000 penalty. While the police have assured that they won’t register cases against learners, the hefty fine raises eyebrows and further intensifies the public’s discontent.