In a concerted effort to curb professional begging during the festive season, Lahore’s traffic police intensified their operations over the past two days, detaining a total of 69 individuals involved in organized begging activities. This crackdown was launched following directives from the Chief Traffic Officer, reflecting the department’s commitment to maintaining order and safety on the city’s busy roads during Eid. The campaign remained fully operational throughout Chand Raat and Eid days, with specialized anti-begging units strategically positioned at key intersections and heavily trafficked areas.
The deployment of these teams resulted in the removal of numerous beggars from critical traffic points, which officials say not only helps in easing congestion but also disrupts the networks that exploit vulnerable people for begging. The operation revealed a diverse group among those detained, including 31 women, 15 men, 19 children, and four transgender persons, highlighting the wide demographic involved in this social issue. Authorities ensured that all detainees were treated humanely, providing meals immediately upon detention before transferring them to Edhi Homes, where they will receive care and rehabilitation services.
Chief Traffic Officer Dr. Athar Waheed elaborated on the broader objectives of the campaign, emphasizing that the department’s focus extends beyond merely clearing the streets. He pointed out that the crackdown targets not only individual beggars but also the organized groups and networks that allegedly manage and exploit these individuals for financial gain. Dr. Waheed stressed that by removing professional beggars from traffic signals and busy roads, the initiative simultaneously improves traffic management and offers a humanitarian solution by linking vulnerable persons with welfare organizations.
In addition to enforcement efforts, the authorities have called on the public to actively participate by reporting the presence of professional beggars at traffic signals and other congested areas. Citizens are encouraged to use the police helpline to notify officials, thereby supporting ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and order. Officials have also made it clear that this campaign will not be limited to the Eid period but will continue in the coming weeks to ensure sustained enforcement and to address the root causes of professional begging in the city.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition within Lahore’s law enforcement agencies of the need to balance effective traffic management with social welfare considerations. By combining strict enforcement with rehabilitation efforts, the traffic police aim to create a safer and more orderly urban environment while providing support to some of the city’s most vulnerable populations. The campaign’s progress will be closely monitored, with further updates expected as authorities continue their work to combat professional begging in Lahore.
