Lahore Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi has assured Mini Mazda transporters that their genuine concerns will be addressed through consultation, but stressed that no compromise would be made on traffic laws, road safety, and regulatory compliance. The assurance came during a meeting with a delegation from the Pakistan Mini Mazda Association, led by representative Tanveer Jatt, at the CTO office on Saturday.
Meeting Highlights and Key Agreements
According to an official statement, the meeting discussed issues faced by transporters, including traffic enforcement, route restrictions, and other regulatory matters. Both sides agreed to work together to find practical solutions. Addressing complaints about alleged unjustified traffic challans, the CTO said the traffic police had introduced a transparent enforcement system under which evidence supporting each violation is provided to violators along with the ticket.
Enforcement and Safety Measures
Shirazi warned that strict action would continue against Mini Mazda vehicles operating without valid route permits, fitness certificates, or driving licences, emphasizing that compliance with traffic regulations is necessary to ensure public safety. He revealed that around 22,000 Mini Mazda vehicles are registered in Lahore, and negligence by their drivers contributes to 11 percent of fatal road accidents in the city.
The CTO directed transporters to ensure vehicles follow designated routes, prescribed load limits, and notified operating hours, warning that violations would not be tolerated. He reiterated that transporters are an important part of the economy and their issues could be resolved through continued dialogue and coordination with traffic authorities.
Joint Committees and Driver Training
Tanveer Jatt assured the CTO that the association would discourage illegal practices among its members and cooperate with traffic police in promoting road safety. The CTO also constituted joint committees comprising transporters and Traffic DSPs to present recommendations for resolving traffic-related issues. Additionally, special refresher courses for Mini Mazda drivers were announced to improve awareness about traffic rules and safe driving practices.
