Crackdowns on Traffic Violations in Lahore
Dr. Athar Waheed, Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) of Lahore, is spearheading a bold and unprecedented campaign to enforce traffic laws with full force. Known as The Big Sweep, this operation targets the top 1,000 vehicles with the highest volume of unpaid traffic fines. It’s a no-nonsense effort to clean up the city’s roads—and it’s already making serious waves.
On-the-Spot Enforcement
Twelve dedicated recovery teams have been mobilized, equipped with high-tech surveillance data from the Safe City project. These teams are actively locating and intercepting traffic violators in real-time, collecting fines directly at the point of encounter.
So far, more than 300 vehicles have been apprehended. One particularly shocking case involved a motorcycle with 313 violations totaling Rs. 335,300—a startling example of just how far some offenders have pushed the limits.
Government Vehicles Under Scrutiny
What truly sets this operation apart is its refusal to exempt the powerful. Government vehicles, long perceived as untouchable, are now squarely in the crosshairs.
A separate list of 3,896 official vehicles from 73 government departments has revealed widespread abuse. These vehicles, often used by senior officers, are some of the worst offenders. The traffic department has now vowed to take imminent action against them.
Top Offending Departments:
- Punjab Food Authority – 117
- PTCL – 181
- Livestock & Dairy Dept. – 184
- SNGPL – 130
- Deputy Commissioner’s Office – 107
- Punjab Police – 496 vehicles
- S&GAD – 358
- WAPDA – 300
- LESCO – 328
- Irrigation Dept. – 122 …and many more.
Despite their repeated violations, these vehicles’ fines remain unpaid—highlighting a culture of impunity within some segments of the public sector.
A Dual Standard?
In stark contrast, the general public is facing the full force of the law. In just 10 days, 4,541 FIRs have been registered against private citizens, with numerous on-the-spot arrests. This disparity has raised public anger, especially as traffic police begin writing formal letters to departments demanding accountability.
A Shift Toward Accountability
What makes this campaign different is its message of equality before the law. It’s not just about clearing dues—it’s a systemic shift. With Safe City data and focused enforcement, Lahore’s traffic police are making it clear: No one is above the law—not even those in power.
Bottom Line: Crackdowns may be the wake-up call Lahore needs—a rare and bold stand for rule of law and civic responsibility in a city long plagued by traffic indiscipline and bureaucratic negligence.
