Punjab PA approves several bills, cuts traffic fines

LAHORE: The Punjab Assembly on Wednesday passed a series of key legislative measures during a session that began with a delay of two hours and four minutes. The sitting, presided over by Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, witnessed an extensive legislative agenda with multiple bills approved through a majority vote. Among the bills passed by the House were the Provincial Employees Social Security Amendment Bill 2026, the Public Sector Universities Amendment Bill 2026, the Stamp Amendment Bill 2026, the Punjab Forensic Science Authority Amendment Bill 2026, the Punjab Protected Areas Amendment Bill 2026, and the Forests Amendment Bill 2026. A major development of the session was the passage of the Provincial Motor Vehicles Fourth Amendment Ordinance 2025, aimed at reducing traffic fines for various vehicle categories. The amendments, earlier approved by the Standing Committee on Home Affairs on April 1, have now received final approval from the Assembly and will be formally authenticated by the governor. Under the newly approved amendments, fines for certain motorcycle violations have been reduced from Rs 2, 000 to Rs1, 000, with the maximum motorcycle fine capped at Rs 2, 000. Rickshaw fines for certain violations have been reduced from Rs 3, 000 to Rs 1, 000, while a fine of Rs2, 000 will remain applicable for serious violations. Fines for cars and jeeps for certain offences have been reduced from Rs 5, 000 to Rs 2, 000, whereas the Rs 5, 000 fine for serious traffic violations will continue to apply. Over-speeding fines for motorcycles, rickshaws and cars have been retained at existing levels. Deputy Speaker Zaheer Iqbal Channar later adjourned the proceedings until Thursday at 11am. Meanwhile, a delegation led by President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol, called on Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan to offer condolences on the passing of his sister. During the meeting, the delegation highlighted concerns about the industrial and business climate in Punjab, citing high energy costs, rising raw material prices, and challenging regional and global economic conditions. The delegation included Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh, former President Muhammad Ali Mian, and Executive Committee Member Umer Sarfaraz. Speaking on the occasion, Saigol stressed the need for stronger coordination between the government, legislature and business community to promote industrial growth, attract investment and boost exports. The Speaker acknowledged the business community as the backbone of the economy and assured that resolving their concerns remains a priority. He also accepted an invitation to visit the chamber next week to engage directly with business representatives and pledged his support. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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