LAHORE: Motorists and motorcyclists across Punjab face heavy fines and stricter penalties following the introduction of a new traffic ordinance, the provincial government announced on Wednesday.

Signed by Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider, the ordinance imposes fines of up to Rs100,000 for driving without a fitness certificate and up to six months in jail for using non-standard window glass. Violating one-way traffic rules may result in six months’ imprisonment or a fine of Rs50,000.

The new new traffic ordinance also make it mandatory for front-seat passengers to wear seat belts, while punishment for underage driving has been doubled, holding parents legally accountable.

Fines for smoke-emitting vehicles have been set at Rs2,000 for motorcycles, Rs3,000 for three-wheelers, Rs8,000 for private vehicles, and Rs15,000 for public transport. Overspeeding penalties have increased by up to 300%, with motorcycles fined Rs2,000 and cars Rs5,000.

Overloading fines range from Rs3,000 for three-wheelers to Rs15,000 for trailers, while violations of traffic signals incur fines between Rs2,000 and Rs15,000 depending on vehicle type.

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Authorities will also take strict action against the use of yellow number plates, fake or non-standard plates, and motorists failing to carry registration documents or proof of ownership.

The provincial government has digitised the challan system to ensure efficient and transparent enforcement of the new rules.