Livestock-Laden Vehicles Banned From Motorways Ahead of Eid

Authorities have imposed a complete ban on livestock-laden vehicles entering motorways, citing public safety and traffic management concerns ahead of Eidul Azha. The decision was reported from Lahore as transport activity linked to sacrificial animals increases across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to the Central Region spokesperson, the restriction is intended to prevent accidents caused by overloaded, unsafe or mechanically unfit vehicles. Officials said the Eid season often brings a sharp rise in the movement of cattle trucks and smaller vehicles carrying animals toward urban markets.

The spokesperson said vehicles carrying livestock will be diverted toward alternative and safer routes instead of being allowed onto motorways. The measure is aimed at reducing risks for regular commuters, long-distance passengers and drivers transporting animals under unsafe conditions.

Authorities also pointed to previous accidents involving overloaded animal transport vehicles, saying such incidents have created serious hazards on high-speed road networks. The concern is that poorly secured animals, unstable loading and unfit vehicles can endanger both the transporters and other motorists.

Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police have been directed to establish checking arrangements at entry points. These checkpoints are expected to stop livestock-laden vehicles before they access motorway sections and guide them toward designated alternatives.

The order also includes action against illegal parking near cattle markets and motorway interchanges. During the Eid rush, such areas often become congested as buyers, sellers and transporters gather around major access routes, creating traffic pressure and safety risks.

Officials said strict legal action will be taken against violations of traffic rules and loading standards. The enforcement drive is expected to cover overloaded vehicles, unfit transport, unsafe animal loading and parking practices that obstruct traffic flow.

The decision comes as Eidul Azha preparations enter a busy phase across Pakistan, with cattle markets attracting thousands of buyers and transporters. Managing this seasonal movement is a recurring challenge for traffic authorities because animal transport often overlaps with passenger travel and commercial traffic.

The immediate impact will be felt by livestock traders and transporters who rely on fast intercity routes to move animals. Authorities, however, maintain that the restriction is necessary to protect lives, reduce accidents and keep traffic moving smoothly during the Eid travel period.