Punjab Deploys AI System to Catch Vehicles With Fake Number Plates. Punjab has taken a major step toward safer roads by introducing an advanced AI-based number plate detection system. The technology, launched by the Punjab Safe City Authority (PSCA), can instantly detect fake, altered, or cloned number plates across the province.
This upgrade strengthens traffic monitoring and helps law enforcement tackle vehicle-related fraud more effectively.
How the New AI System Works
The Safe City cameras now use machine learning tools to scan number plates in real time.
The system can identify:
- Fake or non-official plates
- Plates with modified numbers or fonts
- Cloned plates copied from another registered vehicle
- Tampered plates designed to hide identity
When the AI detects a suspicious plate, it generates an alert immediately.
This alert is sent to the Virtual Patrolling Officer, who then dispatches a field team to the exact location of the vehicle.
The team reaches the spot quickly and takes legal action on the spot.
This process eliminates delays and reduces the chances of offenders escaping
Strict Legal Action for Fake Number Plates
Authorities have warned that there will be zero tolerance for fake number plates.
Using an illegal plate is not just a traffic violation—it is a criminal offence.
Offenders may face:
- Heavy traffic fines
- Vehicle impoundment
- Criminal charges for fraud and forgery
Cases will be registered under the Pakistan Penal Code sections 420, 468, 471, and 171, which deal with:
- Fraud
- Forgery
- Use of false documents
- Misrepresentation
These laws carry serious penalties, including possible imprisonment.
Why the Crackdown Matters
Fake and cloned number plates are often used in:
- Vehicle theft
- Hit-and-run cases
- Smuggling and illegal transport
- Avoiding e-challans
- Criminal activities
By automatically flagging suspicious plates, Punjab aims to make road networks safer and restore public trust in surveillance systems.
What Vehicle Owners Should Do
Officials have urged all citizens to:
- Install only original government-issued plates
- Avoid decorative or modified plates
- Ensure the plate font, color, and size match official standards
- Keep vehicle registration records updated
Using genuine plates is the simplest way to avoid fines and legal trouble.
Conclusion
Punjab’s shift toward AI-backed enforcement shows how digital policing is growing in Pakistan.
With real-time detection and immediate reporting, fake number plates are becoming harder to misuse.
For ordinary citizens, this means safer roads, fairer enforcement, and a system that quickly identifies those trying to cheat the law.
FAQs
What does the new AI system detect?
It identifies fake, altered, tampered, or cloned number plates.
How are offenders caught?
Safe City cameras detect the plate, send an alert, and a field team reaches the location to take action.
Which laws apply to fake number plates?
Sections 420, 468, 471, and 171 of the Pakistan Penal Code.
Can a decorative plate cause issues?
Yes. Any non-official plate may be flagged as tampered or illegal.
Is using a fake number plate a criminal offence?
Yes. It can lead to challans, vehicle confiscation, and criminal charges.
