Officially, the government of the Punjab has declared that those as young as 16 years can now be given driving licenses and smart cards to operate motorcycles, which is a great change in traffic and youth safety policy of the province. A massive criticism by the masses led to the decision being confirmed by the Punjab Chief Minister Office after the recent traffic crackdown that led to the arrest of thousands of people- many of them being schoolchildren.
The strict action taken against underage motorcycle riding was witnessed in the province over a few days. Over 4,600 cases were filed and about 3,100 children were detained in 72 hours, which caused a furor among parents, educational institutions and civil society. Some claimed that the crackdown was unjust and harmful to the future of minority students.
The new policy will help to rectify the situation, replacing severe punishments with a more constructive and education focused method towards young riders.
Why the Punjab Government Changed the Policy
Public Backlash Over Student Arrests
Parents and citizens strongly objected to the crackdown, raising several concerns:
- Schoolchildren were being treated like criminals
- Arrests could create permanent negative records
- Traffic police were using excessive force
- Most minors lacked awareness—not intention—to break the law
This widespread criticism pushed the government to reassess its strategy.
CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s Response
A video of minors being handcuffed and reports thereof caused chief minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to express serious displeasure. She pointed out the necessity of more responsible and fair enforcement that prevents not only the safety of the population but also the dignity of minors.
New Policy: Motorcycle Licenses for 16-Year-Olds
The provincial cabinet has sanctioned the issuance of motorcycle licenses and smart cards to teenagers of 16 years and above.
Key Highlights of the Policy
- 16-year-olds are now eligible for official motorcycle licenses
- Smart license cards will be issued to young applicants
- Traffic police will introduce awareness campaigns in schools and colleges
- First-time helmetless students will receive warnings rather than fines
- Police will provide road safety education to young riders
The purpose of this initiative is to draw teen riders into the law rather than forcing them to engage in unlawful unsafe riding.
Awareness Week Across Punjab Schools
Traffic police will conduct a province-wide awareness week, focusing on:
- Road safety education
- Helmet usage awareness
- Basic and advanced motorcycle safety rules
- Hands-on safe riding demonstrations
The government feels that education can work better than punishment particularly among minors who are still learning to be responsible.
Use of Technology: Drones & Body Cameras
To ensure transparency and fairness, Punjab Police will employ:
Drones
- For real-time monitoring of violations
- To record neutral, unbiased evidence
- To minimize on-road discrimination
Body Cameras
- Worn by traffic wardens
- To ensure professionalism and accountability
- To document interactions between police and the public
Why This Decision Matters
1. Prevents Criminalization of Minors
Teens will no longer risk arrest records that could harm their future.
2. Promotes Safer Roads
A structured licensing process ensures proper training and rule awareness.
3. Encourages Helmet Use
Instead of fines, teens will receive guidance and education on helmet safety.
4. Builds Trust Between Youth & Police
Moving from punishment to awareness creates a healthier relationship.
Parents’ Responsibility Stressed
CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized that parents must play an active role:
- Teach traffic rules at home
- Ensure children wear helmets
- Stop underage or reckless riding
- Explain long-term risks of unsafe driving
What Happens Next?
The Punjab government will soon start:
- Setting up fast-track licensing counters for 16-year-olds
- Issuing smart motorcycle licenses across the province
- Carrying out training sessions in schools and colleges
- Implementing regular drone-based monitoring
- Enforcing traffic laws with a focus on education over punishment
The move to grant 16-year-olds in Punjab motorcycles licenses is a significant change that was motivated by the will of the people and their desire to be fair. The government, by offering alternatives to punitive measures such as education, awareness and contemporary monitoring devices, hopes to provide safer roads and protection of the dignity and future of the young riders.
