In a major shift toward equal enforcement of traffic laws, Lahore has officially abolished the green signal protocol previously enjoyed by senior police officers.
Under the new instructions, DIGs, SSPs and SPs will now be required to stop at traffic signals like all other citizens. The decision aims to eliminate preferential treatment on the roads and ensure smoother traffic flow across the city.
No route clearance or stopped traffic
According to the directive, traffic on adjacent routes will no longer be stopped for the movement of any police officer.
A message detailing the new policy has been sent by traffic police authorities to all relevant circle officers.
Police officers will now have to follow traffic lights strictly, and any violation will result in immediate penalties.
E-challan enforcement intensifies
Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Athar Waheed stated that e-challans will be issued to government vehicles violating traffic signals without exception.
He revealed that:
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1,282 e-challans have been recovered from vehicles belonging to 55 government departments
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204 defaulting government vehicles faced action within just 24 hours
The CTO stressed that strict monitoring will continue to ensure compliance.
Limited exceptions for top command
Police sources said that while the green signal protocol has ended for DIGs, SSPs and SPs, unusual or special routes may still be provided during the movement of the Punjab IGP and Lahore CCPO.
Previously, traffic signals were made temporarily free during the movement of senior officers, but this facility has now been discontinued for most ranks.
Authorities say the step is part of broader efforts to improve traffic management across Lahore. The decision reflects growing emphasis on accountability, equal treatment and restoring public confidence in law enforcement on the roads.
