The Lahore High Court (LHC) Justice Ali Zia Bajwa has issued a directive for an immediate crackdown against individuals driving vehicles without a valid license and emphasized drivers without a license should be arrested.
He was hearing a case regarding the legal protection request of the accused in a defense accident, in which six members of a family were killed by an underage driver, who is now behind bars and facing Police investigations. The victims were identified as Rukhsana, 52; Anabia, 3; Huzaifa, four months; Muhammad Hasnain, 28; Sajjad, 26; Ayesha, 22.
During the proceedings, Justice Ali Zia Bajwa expressed his concern over the prevalence of car accidents, describing them as deeply unfortunate incidents.
The provincial apex court highlighted the alarming discrepancy between the number of vehicles on the road and the issued licenses, noting that out of 100,000,0 vehicles, there are only 200,000 licenses.
Lahore Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) apprised the court that there are 7.3 million vehicles on the road, but only 1.3 drivers have licenses.
The court sought clarification on the actions being taken against unlicensed vehicles, particularly in light of the recent accident under discussion.
The LHC directed for accountability, asking the CTO to report on the steps taken in the aftermath of the incident.
The CTO apprised the court that a crackdown had been initiated in the last three days.
However, the court raised concerns about potential discrimination in enforcing traffic regulations, highlighting instances where individuals claim special privileges due to their connections.
Justice Bajwa highlighted that such crimes often occur in more posh areas.
The court further inquired about the measures being taken against individuals who allow their minor children to drive, to which the CTO assured that existing laws are enforced, and appropriate actions are taken against such cases.
