LHC Orders Rs5,000 Fine for Helmet Violators
The Lahore High Court (LHC) has taken a stern stance on motorcyclists who fail to wear helmets, directing the city traffic police to impose a fine of Rs5,000 on violators. Justice Shahid Karim, presiding over public interest petitions concerning environmental and water issues, gave the order on Monday.
In addition to the fine, the court instructed the traffic police chief to establish rules for increasing the penalty, and an order regarding it will be issued in due course. According to Justice Karim, motorcyclists will start complying with the helmet-wearing requirement when they are faced with a hefty Rs5,000 fine. However, before the higher penalty is enforced, the police have been ordered to conduct a 10-day awareness campaign to educate motorcyclists about the importance of wearing helmets.
The court also addressed the issue of rainwater accumulation in the newly constructed Kalma Underpass for the Central Business District (CBD) during the recent monsoon spell. Expressing displeasure over the subpar drainage system, Justice Karim summoned the housing secretary and the chief executive officer of the CBD authority for the next hearing. The judge criticized the chief engineer of the Lahore Development Authority, stating that they should have resigned immediately after the rain exposed the poor drainage infrastructure of the underpass.
Furthermore, the court requested a report from the deputy commissioner regarding any damage caused to houses near the CBD underpass due to rainwater accumulation. The judge emphasized the need to address this issue promptly to prevent further harm to the local residents.
In an effort to minimize congestion on the roads during rule enforcement, the judge also instructed traffic wardens to avoid causing unnecessary traffic disturbances while conducting their checks.
As we observe these developments, it is clear that the LHC is taking a proactive approach to ensure the safety of motorcyclists on the roads. By imposing a substantial fine for not wearing helmets, the court hopes to effectively discourage such violations and protect individuals from potential head injuries in the event of an accident.
Meanwhile, the court’s attention towards the rainwater accumulation issue in the newly constructed Kalma Underpass showcases their commitment to addressing public concerns related to infrastructure. By summoning relevant officials and demanding reports, the court aims to hold responsible parties accountable and find solutions to rectify the drainage problems.
The upcoming awareness campaign and the subsequent increase in penalties will further raise awareness about the importance of helmet usage among motorcyclists. It is imperative for all road users to prioritize safety and adhere to traffic laws to prevent accidents and protect lives.
The LHC’s actions highlight the significance of proper infrastructure management and enforcement of traffic regulations. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including the government, authorities, and citizens, to work together to ensure road safety and enhance the overall quality of life in Lahore.
With the implementation of stricter penalties and a focus on awareness campaigns, it is hoped that motorcyclists will embrace the use of helmets as a key safety measure. By doing so, they can significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries and contribute to a safer and more responsible road culture in Lahore.
