Lahore Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi has announced a special Sunday licensing facility for rickshaw drivers as part of an initiative to facilitate drivers and promote compliance with traffic laws.
Sunday Licensing at Manawan Centre
According to a spokesperson for City Traffic Police Lahore (CTPL), rickshaw drivers can now apply for driving licences every Sunday from 8:00am to 4:00pm at the Manawan Licensing Centre. Special arrangements have been made to streamline the process and address difficulties faced by drivers in obtaining licences.
CTO's Remarks on Road Safety
Speaking about the initiative, the CTO said road safety and traffic discipline can only be improved when drivers possess adequate knowledge of traffic regulations, road safety measures and responsible driving practices. He said CTPL introduced this dedicated facility to encourage rickshaw drivers to become licensed and ensure their integration into the legal framework governing road transport.
Awareness Lectures and Training
Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi said special awareness lectures and training sessions are also being organised for rickshaw drivers to enhance their professional skills, improve their understanding of traffic rules and promote safe driving behaviour. He emphasised that licensed and well-trained drivers form the foundation of a safe and efficient traffic system. Ensuring proper training and licensing would help reduce traffic violations, prevent road accidents and provide safer commuting for citizens.
Permanent Licence Procedure
The CTO further informed that rickshaw drivers become eligible for a permanent driving licence after completing 42 days from the issuance of their learner’s licence, in accordance with prescribed procedure. He said CTPL remains committed to introducing practical and citizen-friendly initiatives to improve public service delivery, facilitate drivers and enhance overall road safety standards in the provincial capital.
CTO Visits Procession Routes
CTO Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi on Sunday visited the procession routes of Qasr-e-Batool Shadman and 145-A Model Town to review traffic management arrangements and ensure smooth traffic flow during religious events. During his visit, he inspected various diversion points and alternative routes established to facilitate mourners and the general public.
Briefing and Coordination
DSP Gulberg and DSP Model Town briefed him on procession routes, traffic diversion plans, and contingency arrangements. Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi also met with organisers to discuss route management and measures for smooth conduct of events.
Removal of Obstructions
While reviewing routes, he identified several obstructions and directed officials to remove them immediately. The CTO said no inconvenience should be caused to mourners or citizens due to traffic arrangements. He instructed traffic wardens at diversion points to treat citizens with courtesy and professionalism while providing guidance on alternative routes.
Additional Personnel and Parking
Additional traffic personnel will be deployed to facilitate road users and maintain efficient traffic flow. Special parking arrangements will be made for mourners attending Majalis and processions to ensure their convenience and safety.
Security Measures
The CTO directed traffic wardens and field officers to remain vigilant and coordinate with law enforcement agencies to monitor suspicious individuals and unattended objects. Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi said Lahore Traffic Police are committed to ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow while facilitating religious gatherings through comprehensive planning and effective traffic management.
