NHMP returns over Rs 0.9 mln to passengers in crackdown on overcharging, overloading

ISLAMABAD, Mar 17 (APP): The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) has returned more than Rs 0.9 million to passengers during a nationwide crackdown against overcharging and overloading launched on March 15 on the special directives of Inspector General Sultan Ahmed Chaudhry.

According to an NHMP spokesman, the special campaign is being carried out across the country to ensure protection of passengers’ rights and strict enforcement of traffic laws, particularly during the ongoing travel season.

During the campaign, authorities took action against 908 vehicles for overloading and 382 public service vehicles (PSVs) for overcharging passengers, while the excess fare amounting to over Rs 0.9 million was recovered and returned to commuters at various locations.

The spokesman said that strict enforcement was also carried out against violations of traffic regulations and safety requirements. As many as 767 PSVs were fined for operating without route permits, while 401 vehicles were penalized for having expired route permits.

Similarly, 594 PSVs were challaned for lacking fitness certificates, while 351 vehicles were penalized for having expired fitness certificates, reflecting the NHMP’s zero-tolerance policy towards unsafe public transport.

He said that citizens could lodge complaints regarding overcharging or other violations through the NHMP helpline 130 or via its official social media handle @NHMP for prompt action.

The spokesman further added that in line with austerity measures and fuel conservationist policies, more than 20,000 vehicles have been fined so far for violating the newly imposed speed limits. NHMP officers are also actively creating awareness among motorists at toll plazas regarding compliance with the revised speed limits.