Parents of underage drivers may now face legal action as traffic authorities have launched a strict and indiscriminate campaign against underage driving, which includes impounding vehicles and obtaining written affidavits from guardians.
The Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Rawalpindi has ordered new strict measures to prevent accidents. According to the directive, any underage driver found driving will not only be ticketed, but their motorcycle or car will also be impounded at the local police station.
The CTO Rawalpindi further explained that authorities are taking a written statement from the parents of any young driver caught. He issued a stern warning that if an underage person is caught driving again after the parents have submitted an affidavit, legal proceedings will also be initiated against the parents.
Explaining the reason for the strict action, CTO Farhan Aslam said, “Underage drivers lack the ability to make quick decisions, which causes accidents.” He emphasized that these young drivers pose a serious threat to themselves and others on the road.
“It is a legal offense for any underage or unlicensed person to drive a car or motorcycle,” the CTO said. He urged parents to fulfill their responsibility by keeping a close watch on their children and refraining from giving them access to vehicles at a young age.
Appealing for public cooperation, the CTO added that joint efforts are needed to establish an organized traffic system. “For orderly traffic, the cooperation of citizens along with law enforcement agencies is essential,” he concluded.