ISLAMABAD: Islamabad police extended the deadline for diving licenses after seeing a rush of applicants. Thousands of residents in Islamabad have rushed to secure driving licences after police announced strict penalties for unlicensed drivers. The sudden surge overwhelmed traffic offices, prompting authorities to extend the compliance deadline and expand services across the capital.
24/7 Driving Licence Services Introduced
To ease the pressure, Islamabad Traffic Police confirmed that driving licence facilities will now operate round the clock. Islamabad police have established 11 facilitation centres in key areas, while mobile vans are also available in different neighborhoods for on-the-spot licence processing.
Active centres include Faizabad Traffic Office, F-6 Facilitation Centre, Sawan Garden, Gulberg Green, Sector H-11, Bani Gala, Sector G-11 DC Office, and Sector G-14. Police also set up additional centers at Khanna Police Station, Diplomatic Enclave, and the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce.
Deadline Extended After Citizens’ Requests
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad, Ali Nasir Rizvi, announced an extension in the deadline until October 7, 2025.
“On citizens’ strong appeals and for their convenience, the deadline has been extended,” Rizvi said. “From October 8 onwards, strict action will be taken against anyone found driving without a valid licence.”
Earlier, the IGP had warned that from October 1, violators would face detention, criminal charges, and vehicle seizure with no option of bail. The announcement triggered long queues at traffic offices across Islamabad.
Licence Applications Surge by 390%
According to SSP Traffic Hamza Humayun, driving licence applications surged by 390 percent following the enforcement drive. While many residents welcomed the initiative, several voiced concerns over high application fees, urging authorities to consider reducing the cost.
The extension provides much-needed relief for citizens struggling with delays and overcrowding at facilitation centres. However, officials reiterated that the crackdown will begin immediately after the new deadline, leaving no excuse for unlicensed driving in the federal capital.
By launching 24/7 services, expanding centres, and mobilising licence vans, Islamabad Police aim to ensure smoother processing before the enforcement date. Authorities believe these measures will improve compliance, enhance road safety, and set a precedent for stricter traffic discipline nationwide.
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