DefinePK

Abstract

Rationale: Rapid urbanization and motorization in Pakistan have placed unprecedented burden on current road infrastructure and traffic management systems. To tackle rising road traffic violations and accident rates, the Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) introduced an electronic ticketing enforcement system in Lahore. This program aims to improve road-user adherence, promote safe driving behavior, and decrease the administrative inefficiencies of manual enforcement. Despite extensive implementation, limited empirical evidence is present on its effectiveness in shaping public perception and behavioral outcomes.
Objectives: The current study investigates the impact of Lahore’s e-ticketing system on road-user behavior and traffic etiquette, perception of fairness and justice evaluation, and familiarity among residents. It also examines the extent to which the system fits with deterrence theory by influencing compliance through the perceived certainty of detection and penalty.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 561 respondents in Lahore, using a structured questionnaire consisting of five sections: demographics, driver-specific factors, awareness, behavioral change, and enforcement perception. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA testing to explore variations in awareness across demographic subgroups. The questionnaire design was based on the Driver Behavior Questionnaire (DBQ) framework and incorporated a Likert scale to assess behavioral adaptation.
Results: The study found high awareness (87.1%) and substantial exposure (75.6%) to the e-ticketing system. However, concerns regarding fairness were significant, as 67.2% of participants reported receiving at least one unwarranted ticket. Despite these concerns, a majority reported positive behavioral adjustments and increased compliance, such as compliance to signals and improved lane discipline. ANOVA results indicated no significant differences in perception scores across age groups, suggesting a uniform system influence.
Discussion: Findings partially support the notions of deterrence theory; as increased assurance of punishment appears to enhance compliance. However, subjective bias and uneven implementation may weaken public trust. The results highlights the importance of system transparency, communication strategies, and robust accountability structures to ensure unbiased enforcement.
Conclusions: The e-ticketing system shows moderate effectiveness in encouraging safer road behavior in Lahore. While technology-driven enforcement increases efficiency and visibility, its long-term stability depends on fairness and evenhandedness, public confidence, and standardized operation. Strengthening transparency, conducting longitudinal analysis, and engaging citizens in awareness campaigns are important for transforming e-ticketing into a sustainable road-safety framework.