The Islamabad Traffic Police registered 496 cases against traffic law violators during the last two weeks. The move has sparked concerns because many of the offenses were previously handled through fines instead of criminal cases.
According to officials, most of the cases were registered under Section 279 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). In some instances, additional legal provisions were also applied.
Data released by the Traffic Police shows that 312 cases were related to one-way driving violations. Another 102 cases involved rash driving and speeding. Authorities also registered 20 cases for lane violations and six for general traffic offenses.
Five cases each were recorded for triple riding on motorcycles and one-wheeling. Three cases involved riding without a helmet. One case each was registered for wrong parking, jumping a red signal, and underage driving. In addition, 40 drivers were booked for operating vehicles without a valid driving license.
Overall, the cases involved 298 motorcycles, 54 cars, and 145 other vehicles. A total of 496 individuals were booked during the enforcement campaign.
Police officers, speaking on condition of anonymity, said fines already exist for many of these violations. They noted that offenses such as speeding, rash driving, red-light jumping, and one-wheeling are considered serious. However, they questioned the need to register criminal cases for several other traffic violations.
The officers also pointed to road closures in Islamabad due to security arrangements. They said roads such as Khayaban-i-Suhrwardy, Mohammad Tufail Niazi Road, and AK Brohi Road are often blocked. These closures can force drivers to take longer routes or enter one-way roads.
Officials further stated that the Traffic Police frequently close middle lanes on major highways for security purposes. They argued that such restrictions can create difficulties and increase risks for motorists.
The issue has also drawn attention because of a 2025 Islamabad High Court ruling. The court cautioned against criminalizing minor traffic violations. It observed that registering criminal cases or impounding vehicles for some offenses could be excessive and inconsistent with the principle of proportionality.
According to police officials, FIRs can have long-term consequences for citizens. A criminal record may affect visa applications, employment opportunities, and admission to educational institutions.
Although Section 279 is a bailable offense, accused individuals are required to appear before a court to obtain bail. The FIRs state that the drivers endangered public safety by violating traffic laws.
Some officers alleged that the increased registration of FIRs was carried out on the instructions of senior officials. They claimed the objective was to increase the overall number of cases registered by the Traffic Police.
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The development has raised questions about the balance between strict enforcement and fair treatment of motorists. It has also renewed debate over whether traffic violations should be addressed through fines or criminal proceedings.
