In a decisive bid to curb the rampant issue of underage driving, the Punjab Government has rolled out a groundbreaking initiative that could land parents and vehicle owners behind bars. Starting July 31, anyone found allowing a minor to drive a motor vehicle will face severe consequences, including up to three years in prison and Rs 25,000 fine.
This bold move is part of a larger effort to instill a culture of road safety and accountability throughout the State.
This unprecedented crackdown aimed at tackling the root of the problem by holding parents and vehicle owners accountable for the underage drivers. This initiative is set to reshape road safety protocols and bolster adherence to traffic laws across the State.
Punjab’s Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Traffic, has already issued comprehensive directives to district SSPs and police commissioners, setting the stage for a month-long awareness campaign to prepare the public for these stringent new regulations. With the stakes higher than ever, the government is sending a clear message — road safety is paramount, and negligence will not be tolerated.
The new regulations stipulate that parents of underage drivers could face up to three years in prison and a hefty fine of Rs 25,000 if their child is caught driving a scooter, bike, or car. Similarly, if a minor is driving a vehicle that they borrowed or rented, the vehicle’s owner will be held equally accountable. This proactive measure aims to address the rising incidents of young drivers on the roads and enhance overall traffic safety.
The announcement follows a directive from ADGP Traffic, who has issued orders to all district SSPs and police commissioners across Punjab. The move aligns with the Motor Vehicle Act (Amendment 2019), specifically sections 199-A and 199-B, which outline the legal framework for these penalties.
As per the orders, the ADGP has asked the police officials to launch an extensive awareness drive throughout July. The campaign will educate parents and vehicle owners about the new regulations and their implications to ensure that everyone is aware of the potential legal consequences of allowing minors to drive.
The regulations also emphasize that vehicle owners must not permit anyone under the age of 18 to drive their vehicles. If caught, owners will face similar penalties, reinforcing the need for responsible vehicle ownership.
Other than this, the Punjab Police will also be conducting educational and awareness programs in schools and colleges to inform students about the legal ramifications of underage driving — primarily aimed at instilling responsible driving habits from a young age.
In addition to these measures, Punjab Police has previously taken steps to address other road safety issues, such as banning the dangerous practice of hanging out of car sunroofs. This new policy is part of a broader strategy to enhance road safety and prevent accidents.
Among the several other innovative measures introduced by the state government to bolster road safety include the formation of Sadak Surakhya Force (SSF) and rolling out of Farishtey Scheme.
Modeled after Canadian road safety initiatives, the SSF is a unique force dedicated to highway safety. Comprising 5,000 officers and 130 modern vehicles, the SSF has already saved over 500 lives and protected valuables worth more than Rs 25 lakh.
The ambitious Farishtey Scheme provides immediate financial assistance and recognition to individuals who help transport accident victims to the hospital. The scheme also ensures free treatment for the first 48 hours post-accident.
