Punjab government moves to cut pollution with new bike law

Lahore: In a major step to combat air pollution, the Punjab government has decided to make fitness certificates mandatory for motorcycles across the province.

The move comes as part of a proposed amendment to the Provincial Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1965, which currently requires fitness certificates only for vehicles other than motorcycles. The updated law, titled the Provincial Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2025, will include the word “motorcycle” in Clause 38-A, making it compulsory for all motorcycle owners to obtain a valid fitness certificate.

Officials say the amendment has been sent to the relevant committee and a report is expected within two months. Once passed, motorcycle owners will be required to get a fitness check every year, similar to other vehicles.

Motorcycles make up about 85% of all transport in Punjab. Authorities believe that enforcing regular fitness checks will help reduce harmful emissions, especially during the winter months when smog and air pollution levels rise sharply.

The initiative aims to improve traffic safety and support Punjab’s broader efforts to fight climate change and improve environmental health.