South Punjab Struggles With Helmet Shortage — Riders Rush to Markets

South Punjab Struggles With Helmet Shortage is currently experiencing a severe helmet shortage, creating panic among motorcycle riders across major cities including Multan, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, and Muzaffargarh. After the strict helmet challan crackdown launched across Punjab in 2025, thousands of riders rushed to markets, causing prices to rise and availability to fall sharply.

Shopkeepers have confirmed that the demand for good-quality helmets has increased by more than 300%, while supply has dropped largely due to sudden buying pressure and limited stock from manufacturers. As a result, many riders are struggling to find even low-quality helmets.

Why Helmet Demand Suddenly Increased in South Punjab

1. Strict Crackdown by Punjab Traffic Police

The Punjab government launched an intense helmet enforcement operation in all districts, especially in South Punjab where traffic violations were earlier less monitored. Traffic police are issuing:

• Heavy fines for not wearing helmets
• Licenses checked at block posts
• E-challans from Safe City cameras
• Strict action at busy roads and markets

This campaign forced riders to purchase helmets immediately — even those who never used them before.

2. New Fine Rates Announced for 2025

Under the new rules, the fine for not wearing a helmet ranges between:

• Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 2,500 in major districts
• Up to Rs. 3,000 in high-risk accident zones

These increased fines pushed thousands of riders to rush to markets at once, causing immediate stock shortages.

3. High Number of Motorbikes in South Punjab

South Punjab has one of the highest motorcycle usage rates in Pakistan due to long commuting distances and fewer public transport options. Cities like Multan and Bahawalpur alone have more than 1 million active motorcycle riders, which automatically increases helmet demand.

Read Also: Punjab Driving Licence Fee Update for December 2025

Market Situation — Shortage, Overpricing & Low-Quality Helmets

Helmets Being Sold at Double Prices

Shopkeepers report that helmets that previously cost Rs. 1,200 to Rs. 1,800 are now selling for:

• Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 3,500 for low-quality units
• Rs. 3,500 to Rs. 6,000 for mid-range helmets
• Rs. 7,000+ for branded helmets (rare)

Many customers complain that even used or repainted helmets are being sold as “new.”

Low-Quality, Repainted Helmets Flooding the Markets

Due to shortage, several shops in:

• Multan Bohar Gate
• Bahawalpur Model Town
• DG Khan Choti Bazar

have started selling refurbished helmets, which include:

• Repainted broken helmets
• Repaired shells with weak outer structure
• Low-quality padding
• No safety certification

These helmets provide almost no real protection, but riders are buying them to avoid challans.

Why Wholesalers Cannot Meet the Demand

Wholesalers in Lahore and Karachi are supplying limited stock due to:

• Sudden demand across whole Punjab
• Slow production from factories
• Rising costs of plastic and foam
• Import issues due to high dollar rate

This means South Punjab markets are receiving only 30–40% of their usual supply.

Police Checking Points Causing Panic Buying

Traffic police have set up strict checking points in:

• Multan: Nawan Shehr, Bosan Road, Chungi No. 6
• Bahawalpur: Ahmedpur Road, City Center
• DG Khan: Pul Dot, College Chowk
• Rahim Yar Khan: Shahi Road, Bypass Area

Every rider without a helmet is fined, and in many areas bikes are being temporarily impounded until compliance. This led to panic and massive queues at helmet shops.

How Riders Are Reacting

1. Long Queues Outside Helmet Shops

People are visiting markets early in the morning to find helmets, but most shops run out within a few hours.

2. Complaints About Overpricing

Social media is filled with complaints about shopkeepers taking advantage of the situation.

3. Riders Demanding Subsidized Helmets

Many citizens are calling for the government to introduce:

• Subsidized helmets
• Fixed price caps
• Online booking for verified helmets

Government’s Response So Far

The Punjab government has advised local administrations to:

• Monitor helmet prices
• Take action against overcharging
• Block sales of broken or unsafe helmets
• Increase supply through manufacturers

However, no official subsidy or price control has been announced yet.

Read More: Pakistan E-Challan App 2026 – Punjab, Sindh & Islamabad Official Traffic Fine Checker

Safety Reminder for Riders

Experts warn riders that buying cheap or repaired helmets is dangerous. A proper helmet must have:

• Hard ABS shell
• Shock-absorbing foam
• Strong chin strap
• Clear visor
• Safety certification

A low-quality helmet may protect you from fines — but not from accidents.

FAQs — Helmet Shortage in South Punjab (2025)