LAHORE: Lahore High Court (LHC) Justice Ali Zia Bajwa on Friday directed for an vigorous crackdown on individuals driving vehicles without valid license, emphasizing drivers without a license should be arrested.
Justice Bajwa issued the directive during hearing of a case regarding the legal protection request of the defense accident accused, 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 high court highlighted the alarming discrepancy between the number of vehicles on road and number of issued licenses, noting that out of 1000,000 vehicles, there are only 200,000 licenses.
On the occasion, the Lahore Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) apprised the court that there are 7.3 million vehicles on 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.
