A rickshaw driver set his vehicle on fire after being issued a traffic challan near a railway crossing in Hafizabad, police said on Tuesday. According to police, the incident occurred after a traffic warden fined the driver for a traffic violation. Following the issuance of the challan, the driver reportedly became enraged and set his rickshaw ablaze. The driver later claimed that he took the extreme step due to frustration over what he described as frequent heavy fines imposed on him. No injuries were reported in the incident, while the rickshaw was severely damaged by the fire.
Police Response and Investigation
District Police Officer (DPO) Kamran Hameed said the traffic warden involved in the incident had been suspended pending an inquiry. He said an investigation had been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and ascertain whether any misconduct occurred during the issuance of the challan. Authorities said further action would be taken in light of the investigation findings.
Community Reaction
The incident has sparked discussions about traffic enforcement practices and the financial burden on daily wage earners. Local residents expressed mixed reactions, with some sympathizing with the driver's frustration while others condemned the destruction of property. Police urged citizens to resolve disputes through legal channels.
