The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has signaled a potential policy change that could allow riders of heavy motorcycles, particularly those with engine capacities above 600cc, to regain access to Pakistan’s motorways. While no official order has been issued, the court’s remarks during recent hearings suggest a shift away from the longstanding ban, emphasizing the importance of safety and regulation rather than outright restriction.
Authorities have proposed a framework that would make motorway riding conditional on completion of mandatory safety training programs. These programs are expected to include both theoretical instruction on traffic rules and practical handling skills specific to high-capacity motorcycles, ensuring that riders are adequately prepared for high-speed motorway conditions.
To facilitate this, new training and registration centers are being planned in key locations, including Islamabad and Sheikhupura. These centers would serve as both educational hubs and regulatory checkpoints, verifying rider competence and issuing certifications required for motorway access.
The court appears to favor a regulated access model that balances public safety with the rights of motorcyclists, potentially setting a precedent for evidence-based policy in other provinces. Officials involved in the implementation have emphasized that compliance with safety standards, helmet use, and adherence to traffic laws will be strictly enforced once the program is operational.
If approved, this move could end years of uncertainty for riders of heavy motorcycles, providing them legal access to motorways while prioritizing the safety of all road users.
