Punjab has introduced a new system to remove old, damaged and unfit vehicles from its roads. The provincial government approved fresh rules that allow official scrapping of such vehicles. The aim is to cut air pollution and improve road safety.
Under the new ordinance, vehicles with cancelled or expired registration will be treated as unfit. Cars and other vehicles that fail to get a fitness certificate or emissions certificate can also be sent for scrapping. Vehicles badly damaged in accidents, fires or natural disasters may also be declared unfit. Owners can voluntarily hand over vehicles that are no longer usable.
The government will set up special vehicle scrapping centres. These will operate in both the public and private sectors. At these centres, usable parts will be removed and saved. The remaining material will be recycled properly.
This change comes after the Punjab governor approved the third major amendment to the Motor Vehicles Ordinance. The new law has already come into force. Detailed rules for how the scrapping process will work will be issued soon by the provincial government.
Officials say the step will help tackle smoke-emitting and unsafe vehicles that harm the environment and public health. By removing these vehicles in an organised way, Punjab hopes to create cleaner air and safer roads for everyone. The policy also supports better recycling practices and opens opportunities for authorised scrapping businesses in the province.