Strictness: Parents to face music if minor caught driving vehicle in Punjab

Chandigarh: In Punjab, if any minor is caught driving a bike, car, or other vehicles, the parents will be imprisoned for 3 years and fined 25 thousand rupees. If the child has driven the vehicle by borrowing it from someone else, action will also be initiated against the concerned vehicle owner.

Before taking strict action under the Motor Vehicle Act, the Punjab Police have decided to raise awareness among the public. This is why instructions have been issued to all police commissioners and SSPs in the state to visit schools and educate children about this issue, aiming to stop this practice immediately and prevent road accidents.

The awareness campaign will be conducted by the Traffic Education Cell and traffic staff. From August 1, records will be sought from all districts regarding the awareness campaign.

According to the ADGP order, after July 31, if a child below 18 years of age is found driving a two-wheeler or car, action will be taken against the parents or the vehicle owner.

According to the orders, other vehicle owners should also be warned not to lend their vehicle to any child under 18 years of age. If caught by the police, action will be taken against the owner after verifying the vehicle’s registration.

The Road Safety Force (RSF) has been formed on the lines of Canada to prevent road accidents in Punjab. This is the first force of its kind in the country, deployed only on highways. It helps people with car problems, accidents, or other emergencies. The force consists of 5,000 policemen and 130 modern vehicles.