Driving in Islamabad just got a bit stricter, as the Excise Department in the capital city has launched a major campaign against unauthorized and “fancy” number plates. If your vehicle isn’t sporting the official, government-issued plate, you could be facing some serious consequences, including hefty fines and even having your car impounded on the spot!
The Reason
Irfan Memon, the Director General of Excise Islamabad, has made it crystal clear: only number plates issued by the Excise Department are legal. This isn’t just about aesthetics; there’s a significant security concern behind this drive. Non-standard plates, whether they have unique designs, modified fonts, or personalized inscriptions, make it incredibly difficult for law enforcement to identify vehicles. Imagine traffic checks, surveillance, or even investigations – an unreadable plate can hinder crucial police work, posing a real security risk in the capital.
What Kind of Plates Are Targeted?
Essentially, if it’s not the plate you received directly from the Excise Department, it’s probably on their hit list. This includes:
- Stylized fonts and designs: Those custom fonts that look “cool” but deviate from the standard.
- Personalized inscriptions: Plates with names, nicknames, or other text not part of the official registration.
- Logos or graphics: Any additions that aren’t part of the approved design.
The message is loud and clear: decorative plates are illegal and won’t be tolerated.
What Happens if You’re Caught?
The Excise Department is not holding back. Field teams are now deployed across the city, from major roads to markets and residential areas, setting up special checkpoints. If your vehicle is found with a non-standard plate, here’s what you can expect:
- Heavy fines: You’ll be paying a significant penalty.
- Immediate impoundment: Your vehicle could be taken off the road right then and there.
- Further legal action: Persistent offenders might face even more severe legal consequences, including the confiscation of their vehicle until compliant plates are installed.
The Excise Department is urging all citizens to immediately remove any fancy or unauthorized number plates. Your best bet is to obtain official number plates directly from the Excise Department to avoid any hassle. They’ve also launched a public awareness campaign, reminding everyone that this isn’t just a traffic violation, but a potential legal headache.
This crackdown is expected to continue for the foreseeable future. So, if you’ve been putting off getting your official plate, now’s the time to act. Don’t let a non-standard number plate turn your drive into a costly inconvenience
