Lahore’s Chief Traffic Officer (CTO), Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi, has proposed new rules for motorcycle manufacturing. The aim is to make side-view mirrors harder to remove and improve road safety. He sent a letter to Punjab’s Secretary for Industries, recommending permanent mirror-support rods on motorcycles.
The proposal follows concerns about accidents involving motorcyclists who change lanes without checking behind them or signalling properly. However, authorities have not yet confirmed that a new province-wide law has come into force.
Why Lahore Wants Permanent Motorcycle Mirrors
According to reports about the CTO’s letter, around 62% of road accidents in Lahore involved motorcyclists changing lanes without looking behind them or giving proper signals. These figures highlight the risks riders face on busy roads.
Side-view mirrors help riders see vehicles approaching from behind and from nearby lanes. They are especially useful when overtaking, turning or changing lanes in heavy traffic.
Under the proposal, manufacturers would permanently fit mirror-support rods to motorcycles. However, riders would still be able to detach the mirrors themselves. This approach could discourage riders from removing the fittings while making it easier to replace damaged mirrors.
Helmet Use and Road Safety in Lahore
Lahore Traffic Police has also encouraged motorcyclists to wear helmets and follow lane discipline. In addition, officials have stressed the importance of using safety equipment correctly.
The CTO reportedly said helmet compliance had reached 97% on model roads. It had also exceeded 88% on other roads. However, wearing a helmet alone cannot prevent every accident. Riders must also check their mirrors and follow safe riding practices.
In August 2026, City Traffic Police Lahore launched an awareness campaign to encourage motorcyclists to use mirrors. Meanwhile, the Associated Press of Pakistan reported that Lahore had more than 6.1 million motorcycles among approximately 8.2 million registered vehicles. These figures show why motorcycle safety remains an important issue for the city.
What Happens Next?
The proposal calls for discussions with relevant government departments and motorcycle manufacturers. These talks would help determine suitable manufacturing standards. However, any formal implementation will depend on decisions by the relevant authorities.
For now, motorcyclists should use properly positioned side-view mirrors, wear helmets and signal before changing lanes. Until officials announce further details, riders should not assume that permanent mirror fittings have become a legal requirement across Punjab.
