by In a major stride toward modernizing transport services, the Punjab government has unveiled an online route permit system—ushering in a new era of transparency, convenience, and digital efficiency for public and commercial vehicles.
1. 🖥️ The Digital Leap
Punjab’s Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), starting from a new pilot launch in Mohali, now allow applicants to apply, pay, and receive route permits entirely online, eliminating the need for physical visits and adhesive stamps . Rollout across the entire state is anticipated soon.
2. 💡 Why It Matters
- Instant convenience: No more long queues at RTOs—drivers and fleet operators can manage permits from home.
- Transparency & accountability: Centralized digital data reduces corruption and ensures better oversight.
- Revenue gains: The digital system has already issued over a million permits and generated more than PKR 2 billion.
3. 🚦 Pilot Highlight: Mohali RTO
During a surprise inspection, Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar praised the automated permit processing and new CCTV-monitored driving test track—noting pass rates of 40% for cars and 82% for motorcycles. These systems aim to foster fair evaluations and reduce traffic incidents.
4. 📈 Broader Digital Movement
This platform complements Punjab’s push toward e-governance:
- E-payments for route permits have replaced adhesive stamps since 2020
- Integration with criminal records, fitness certificates, and other transport services ensures seamless inter-department coordination
5. 🛣️ What’s Next?
- Statewide rollout following the Mohali pilot
- Expansion to include other services like fitness certificates, driving licenses, and e-challans
- Monitoring & accountability, with grievance redressal systems ensuring no hurdles during implementation
- Punjab Introduces Online Route Permits.
✅ Final Takeaway
Punjab’s move toward online route permits sets a new standard in transport governance—reducing bureaucracy, promoting fairness, and increasing revenue. If executed well, this digital infrastructure will pave the way for more efficient, citizen-friendly transport services across the province.
