Lahore, In an expansive effort to overhaul and streamline the province’s traffic management, Inspector General Police Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar convened a critical video-conference with chief traffic officers from across Punjab. Among the significant outcomes: a more than 600% increase in driving licensing and the establishment of numerous driving schools, testing centers, and licensing counters.
According to a news release by the Punjab Police, the digital meeting saw participation from district traffic officers from various jurisdictions, including CTO Lahore Mustansar Feroze and CTO Gujranwala Ayesha Butt. At the helm of discussions, SSP Traffic Riffat Bukhari apprised attendees about a broad spectrum of topics ranging from road safety to the enhancement of training schools and other salient traffic management issues.
As a recognition of their stellar performance, IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar declared his intent to issue letters of appreciation to those district traffic officers who have notably enhanced the rate of driving licensing—highlighting a remarkable 800% increase by Traffic Police Jhang, which now leads all districts in this domain. Over the past few months (from July to October), the province has witnessed the inauguration of 51 driving schools, 126 testing centers, and 75 licensing counters. Another notable achievement is the training of 38,259 citizens, of which 13,255 are women, at police driving schools, with female instructors leading the courses for women.
In terms of internal advancement, 564 Wardens have been elevated to the rank of Senior Traffic Wardens, while 83 Junior Wardens have ascended to Warden positions. As an educational resource for the public, lectures from senior police officers concerning driving training will soon be accessible on the Punjab Police’s official website.
In a move toward better road safety, IG Punjab directed an acceleration of the traffic awareness campaign under the outreach program to mitigate road accidents. He further indicated that the scope of Driving Licensing Centers and Training Schools would be broadened, even incorporating the Patrolling force to cater to an even larger number of citizens.
SSP Traffic Riffat Bukhari also shed light on the inclusive efforts of the traffic police, mentioning the issuance of driving licenses to 166 transgenders post-training. Additionally, due to the proactive measures implemented under the accident management system, the number of accidents on Punjab roads has seen a decline.