The traffic police in various cities of Pakistan have intensified actions against one-wheeling (motorcycle stunts performed on a single wheel) due to its dangers to public safety. Below is a summary of key enforcement measures and related details:
1. *Strict Legal Actions and Penalties*
– *Karachi*: DIG Ahmed Nawaz Cheema directed traffic police to take strict action against one-wheelers, underage drivers, and traffic violators. Legal action can also be taken against parents of underage offenders .
– *Lahore*: On Independence Day (August 14, 2022), Lahore Traffic Police announced strong measures, including confiscating modified motorcycles and filing cases against mechanics altering bikes for stunts. Parents were urged to prevent their children from engaging in one-wheeling .
– *Abbottabad*: Motorcycles ridden by helmetless or underage drivers are confiscated and only released after parents submit affidavits. Unregistered bikes are held under Section 523/550 of the law .
2. *Targeted Crackdowns*
– *Rawalpindi*: Police struggle to curb one-wheeling during Ramadan nights, especially near Ayub Park and Murree Road. Modified motorcycles are impounded, and violators face jail time .
– *Sindh Province*: A province-wide crackdown on traffic violations, including one-wheeling, began in January 2025. Repeat offenders face FIRs (First Information Reports) .
3. *Parental and Mechanic Accountability*
– Parents of underage riders are held legally responsible if their children are caught one-wheeling. Mechanics modifying motorcycles for stunts also face police cases .
– In Abbottabad, motorcycles are only returned to parents after they sign affidavits pledging compliance with traffic laws .
4. *Challenges in Enforcement*
– Despite efforts, one-wheeling remains prevalent, particularly during festivals like Independence Day and Ramadan. Police attribute this to teenagers evading checkpoints and a lack of parental oversight .
5. *Public Awareness Campaigns*
– Authorities in Karachi and Sindh launched awareness campaigns through media to educate the public about traffic laws and the risks of one-wheeling before enforcing strict penalties .
Key Rationale for Enforcement
These measures aim to reduce accidents, fatalities, and disruptions caused by reckless driving. For instance, DIG Traffic Karachi highlighted that 75% of motorcyclists in the city are underage or unlicensed, contributing to road accidents .
