Punjab govt launches e-auction for custom number plates

LAHORE: The Punjab government has launched an innovative e-auction system, allowing citizens to register vehicles and bid for desired number plates online through a dedicated app and web portal.

Registration for the program will remain open till December 31, 2024, giving participants ample time to secure the vehicle numbers of their choice.

Developed by the Punjab Excise and Taxation Department in collaboration with the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB), the e-auction platform is designed to streamline the bidding process for both motorcycle and car number plates. Users can also view auction results and winning details directly within the app.

Highlighting the ease and accessibility of the system, PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf said that the e-auction app allows individuals to register online and bid for vehicle numbers easily, ensuring convenience and efficiency in the process.

Earlier today, in a bid to curb misuse of power, Pakistan Customs introduced a new policy that prohibits the use of smuggled vehicles by government officials.

The policy aims to prevent customs officials from using thousands of vehicles in their custody for personal gain.

The authorities have imposed restrictions on the use of smuggled tempered vehicles in government departments, cancelling the No Objection Certificate (NOC) of all cars used by officials.

The customs intelligence office at the provincial level is restricted to using a maximum of ten cars, officials said.

The policy has been introduced to curb misuse of power, as smuggled tempered vehicles are being used more by Pakistan Customs officials, who have thousands of vehicles in their custody.

According to the new policy, the Islamabad Customs Intelligence office cannot use more than 12 vehicles, while the offices in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta and Peshawar are allowed to use up to 10 vehicles.