Citizens in Punjab have long demanded faster emergency responses, safer streets, and transparent traffic enforcement. The provincial government has answered these demands by launching six integrated law and order initiatives that leverage artificial intelligence, real-time surveillance, and rapid-response technology.
Key Takeaways
- đč Surveillance Grid Expansion:Â The Safe City Project now covers 18 Phase-I cities and will expand to all 98 tehsils by December 31, 2026, creating a province-wide digital security blanket.
- đš Real-Time Emergency Tracking:Â The upgraded 15 helpline system allows citizens to track their police complaints online and receive FIR documents directly via WhatsApp.
- đ§ Specialized Child Protection:Â The Virtual Child Safety Centre has successfully reunited more than 60,000 missing individuals with their families using AI tools and social media campaigns.
- đ± Video-Proof Traffic Enforcement:Â The AI Based Challan system and the âOne Appâ are the countryâs first evidence-based traffic enforcement mechanisms, issuing fines based on secure video recordings.
- đĄïž Counter-Terrorism Modernization: The CTD has received a Rs1.5 billion grant, launched Pakistanâs first mobile counterterrorism unit, and implemented the Punjab Surrender Illicit Arms Act 2026.
- đ High-Tech Border Monitoring:Â Three strategic checkposts in Attock are now equipped with thermal drones to monitor cross-border movement and river routes.
- Read More: CM Punjab All Scheme List – (Environmental Initiatives List)
- Read More: Maryam Nawaz All Scheme List – (List of Agriculture Schemes)
- Read More: Maryam Nawaz All Scheme List â (Infrastructure Programs)
- Read More: Maryam Nawaz All Scheme List – (Social Welfare Schemes)
Maryam Nawaz All Scheme List – (Law & Order Initiatives)

Table of Contents
The Six-Point Agenda for a Safer Punjab

The Maryam Nawaz Law & Order initiatives consist of six core pillars: Safe City Project, Upgraded 15 System, Child Safety Center, AI Based Challan, CTD Reforms, and Border Check Post enhancement. These programs work together as an interconnected security ecosystem rather than isolated projects. The Safe City cameras feed data to the 15 helpline command center, while AI Challan enforcement relies on the same surveillance infrastructure. Child recovery operations use the helpline as their primary intake channel, and CTD intelligence flows to border check posts for enhanced screening. The total budget allocation for law and order stands at PKR 300 billion, with PKR 200 billion for non-development expenditures and PKR 10 billion specifically for security development projects.
Safe City Project in 18 Cities
The Safe City Project in 18 cities represents the largest urban surveillance network ever deployed in Punjab. Phase-I has been completed in 18 cities including Multan, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Jhelum, Attock, Sargodha, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Muzaffargarh, Sahiwal, Jhang, Hasan Abdal, Murree, Okara, Mianwali, Taxila, and Gujrat.
Which Cities Are Covered in Phase-I and Phase-II?

The Phase-I cities have achieved 100 percent completion, with state-of-the-art surveillance infrastructure now operational. Phase-II adds 19 additional cities scheduled for completion by March 31, 2026. The most significant expansion involves establishing Smart Safe Cities in all 98 tehsils across Punjab by December 31, 2026. This historic agreement was signed between Punjab Safe Cities Authority and National Radio and Telecommunication Corporation at the Central Police Office Lahore.
How Many Cameras Have Been Installed Province-Wide?
The first phase of camera installation cost Rs5.18 billion, while the second phase is projected at Rs5.64 billion. Beyond public cameras, the Safe Cities Authority has mapped 2.5 million private security cameras across Punjab to further strengthen surveillance capabilities. A separate Rs5 billion plan has been submitted to install Safe City cameras in streets, neighborhoods, and public areas of all union councils, covering approximately 7,000 union councils.
What Technologies Power the Surveillance Network?

Artificial Intelligence forms the backbone of the Safe City Project, enabling automated crime detection, facial recognition, and suspicious activity alerts. The command-and-control center operates 24/7 with real-time monitoring capabilities across all connected cities. Drone surveillance operations have been upgraded across Murree, Jhelum, Gujrat, Muzaffargarh, Bahawalpur, Multan, and Rahim Yar Khan. The system also includes 18 Air Quality Index Monitoring Sensors installed in various cities.
Has the Safe City Project Reduced Crime Rates?
Data from Muzaffargarh shows the crime rate dropped by nearly 60 percent following Safe City implementation. The system aids in traffic management through automated violation detection, reducing congestion and improving road safety. Criminal apprehension has become faster and more accurate as surveillance footage provides concrete evidence for investigations. Information Minister Azma Bokhari has stated that the overall law and order situation across the province has improved markedly in recent months, with the Crime Control Department playing a pivotal role in curbing criminal activities.
Upgraded 15 System

The Upgraded 15 System represents a complete modernization of Punjabâs primary police emergency helpline, transforming it from a slow, multi-step relay system into a digitally coordinated rapid-response grid.
What Features Does the New 15 Helpline Offer?
The helpline has been overhauled with a conference-call-enabled dispatch system that connects the caller, the Punjab Police Integrated Command & Control Centre, and the nearest patrolling officer simultaneously. This single innovation has cut communication delays by more than half. When a call is received, the system identifies the callerâs geolocation and patches them directly to the patrolling officer. The system also tracks the patrolling carâs live location until arrival, and supervisors can monitor the response in real-time. Any unexplained delay is flagged immediately.
How Can Citizens Track Their Complaints Online?

Citizens can now monitor complaints registered through the 15-helpline at any time through an online interface. Once authorities register a First Information Report, they send a download link, e-tag number, and relevant details via WhatsApp. Applicants receive a username and password through a message, allowing them to log in and check their complaint status. Citizens can check the latest complaint status by visiting feedback.psca.gop.pk or by calling 15 and selecting option 2 for the Virtual Women Police Station.
What Is the Pink Button Emergency System?
The Pink Button system has been activated across Punjab in collaboration with the Safe Cities Authority. The pink button system is directly linked with the Punjab Police emergency helpline 15 and the Safe Cities central command and control centre. Once activated, an automatic alert is generated and sent to the control room, after which the nearest police and rescue teams are immediately dispatched to the location. The system is being installed at public places, major highways, sensitive locations, and has been made mandatory in educational institutions. The system is designed for situations where citizens cannot use a mobile phone, such as during harassment, robbery, theft, missing persons incidents, or medical emergencies.
What Impact Has the Upgraded System Had on Response Times?

According to official crime-call statistics, Lahore has recorded a 56 percent decline in property-related 15 calls compared to 2023. Total calls dropped from 83,975 in 2023 to 37,018. Coupled with increased accountabilityâover 200 officers undergoing legal or departmental actionâofficials report field efficiency, reduced absenteeism, and improvements in citizen interactions.
Child Safety Center

The Virtual Child Safety Centre, operating under the Punjab Safe Cities Authority, is Pakistanâs first and largest comprehensive child safety and protection platform.
What Is the Virtual Child Safety Centre and How Does It Operate?
The Virtual Center for Child Safety is a flagship project dedicated to the protection, recovery, and reunification of missing and abused children. The âMera Pyaraâ program team is specifically assigned to trace missing individuals including children, elderly persons, and vulnerable adults. The center utilizes modern technology, AI-based systems, and social media platforms to trace missing persons and reunite them with their families.
How Can Citizens Report a Missing Child?
Three reporting channels are available for reporting missing children. First, citizens can call emergency helpline 15 and press 3 to connect directly with the Virtual Center for Child Safety team. Second, the special national helpline 0309-0000015 accepts calls, WhatsApp messages, and text messages from across Pakistan. Third, citizens can share information about missing children through social media platforms, which the Mera Pyara team actively monitors.
How Many Missing Children Have Been Recovered?
The Mera Pyara team has successfully reunited more than 60,000 missing children and vulnerable individuals with their families. Recent success stories include reuniting a 6-year-old missing child named Babar from Karachi with his parents using AI mechanisms and social media platforms. The team also reunited a 5-year-old girl and her 6-month-old baby sister who had lost their way, using only the clue of the word âJalalpurâ to trace their family. A 28-year-old missing person case was successfully resolved when a Facebook post reached the missing personâs brother in Saudi Arabia.
What Is the Process for Recovering a Missing Child?

The recovery process follows six structured steps. Anyone noticing a missing or abandoned child must call 15 and press 3 immediately. The availability of data of abandoned children residing in welfare institutions within the Safe City system assists the search and identification process. The Mera Pyara team conducts detailed interviews with the child, gathering key information about family, location, and identifying markers. The team launches a social media awareness campaign featuring the childâs information and photographs. Once potential family members come forward, the team conducts thorough verification through multiple channels. After completing all legal formalities and verification procedures, the Safe City Mera Pyara team safely hands over the child to parents or legal guardians.
AI Based Challan System
The AI Based Challan system represents Pakistanâs most advanced digital traffic surveillance system operated by Punjab Safe Cities Authority.
What Is the Digital Traffic E-Challan âOne Appâ?
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif formally launched the provinceâs digital traffic challaning system âOne Appâ as the countryâs first evidence-based traffic enforcement mechanism. Under this system, traffic violation tickets are issued with video evidence to promote transparency and accountability. Traffic officers can instantly verify identity cards, driving licenses, and stolen vehicle records on the spot. Vehicle ownership details, fitness certificates, and route permits can be checked immediately through the integrated system.
What Traffic Violations Does the AI System Detect?
The system detects 19 traffic violations with high accuracy through automated processes. Common violations and fines include overspeeding at Rs2,000, breaking a red light at Rs5,000, one-way violation at Rs1,000, motorcycle without a helmet at Rs2,000, not wearing a seat belt at Rs2,000, and using a mobile phone while driving at Rs5,000. Serious violations include parking in a No Parking Zone at Rs3,000, blocking a traffic lane at Rs5,000, and driving without a License at Rs10,000.
How Can Drivers Check and Pay Their E-Challans?
Drivers can check their challans by visiting the official Punjab Safe Cities portal at echallan.psca.gop.pk. They can select the option âCheck Challan from Number Plateâ and enter the vehicleâs registration number. For additional verification, the CNIC number can also be entered. The complete challan record appears on the screen including challan number, nature of violation, date, time, fine amount, and payment status. Payments can be made through JazzCash App, Easypaisa App, HBL, UBL, Meezan, Allied Bank Mobile Apps or ATM, or with printed challan at any Punjab Bank branch.
What Happens If a Driver Receives an Incorrect E-Challan?
The PSCA has established a formal review mechanism on the official website where citizens can challenge incorrect challans. The system has already cancelled over 38,000 invalid e-challans following successful appeals. Citizens can submit evidence and request review through the online complaint system. The video evidence requirement actually protects citizens by providing verifiable proof of any alleged violation.
CTD Reforms
The Counter-Terrorism Department has undergone comprehensive reforms under Maryam Nawazâs leadership, transforming it into a modern, technologically advanced counterterrorism force.
What Is the Punjab Surrender Illicit Arms Act 2026?
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz approved this comprehensive act containing provisions for the elimination of all forms of illegal weapons. Under the act, special permission is required to display rare weapons at home. Following enforcement of the new law, illegal weapons must be surrendered to the CTD. Even citizens holding licensed arms are required to provide reasonable justification for possessing the weapon. Strict penalties have been proposed under the act for those who fail to surrender illegal weapons within the stipulated period.
What Is Pakistanâs First Mobile Counterterrorism Department?
Punjab launched Pakistanâs first-ever mobile Counterterrorism Department designed to function as a fully equipped, on-the-go counterterrorism office. This state-of-the-art mobile van is packed with cutting-edge technology allowing authorities to efficiently manage and oversee security operations in difficult-to-access or emergency-prone areas. The mobile unit enables real-time monitoring of security operations in challenging and unusual situations, significantly bolstering response capabilities during critical incidents.
What Funding Has Been Approved for CTD Modernization?
The Punjab cabinet approved an immediate supplementary grant of Rs1.5 billion to enhance CTDâs operational capacity. Key allocations include Rs1.149 billion for anti-drone units and advanced equipment, Rs94.9 million for AI-based software upgradation to improve intelligence gathering, Rs350 million for GPS and cellular monitoring of Fourth Schedule individuals, Rs208.4 million for command and control vehicles and monitoring units, and Rs459.9 million for modern assault weapons and accessories.
What Operational Successes Has the CTD Achieved?
The CTD conducted 366 intelligence-based operations across various cities, resulting in the arrest of 36 suspected terrorists linked to various proscribed militant organisations. The department has foiled numerous planned attacks and dismantled terrorist networks and sleeper cells. A new CTD Training School has been inaugurated in Lahore to enhance the operational and intelligence capabilities of CTD personnel.
Border Check Post Enhancement
The provincial government has approved PKR 520 million to strengthen border and river check posts in various districts, aiming to bolster the first line of defense against terrorism, smuggling, and other criminal activities at provincial entry points.
What Upgrades Are Being Made to Border Check Posts?
Three strategic checkposts in Attock at Makhad, Kushalgarh, and a riverine post in Hazro have been equipped with modern drones featuring thermal technology for aerial monitoring of sensitive border areas and river routes. Equipment upgrades include night vision cameras, bulletproof jackets, modern weapons, and communication systems. Infrastructure development includes construction of new facilities, accommodation improvements, and meal facilities for deployed personnel.
How Many Check Posts Are Being Upgraded?
The security enhancement covers police check posts, Punjab Highway Patrol posts, and river check posts established in provincial border areas. The IG Punjab has directed RPOs, CPOs, and DPOs to personally assess security and further strengthen security at inter-provincial police check posts. Regular video link meetings chaired by IG Punjab monitor progress on the border check post strengthening mission.
What Security Measures Are Being Implemented at Provincial Borders?
Personnel deployed at inter-provincial border posts have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance. Drones enable aerial monitoring of sensitive border areas helping authorities keep close watch on suspicious activities and respond promptly against criminal elements. The CTD coordinates closely with border check posts for intelligence sharing. Protection for foreign nationals including Chinese citizens and Sikh pilgrims has been strengthened.
How Citizens Can Access These Services
Citizens have multiple channels to access services and file complaints under the Maryam Nawaz law and order initiatives.
Emergency Contacts and Portals
For police emergencies, citizens should call 15 from any phone across Punjab. For complaint tracking, they can visit feedback.psca.gop.pk or call 15 and select option 2. For missing children, they should call 15 and press 3, or call 0309-0000015. For written suggestions, they can WhatsApp to 0311-4340000. For the Virtual Women Police Station, they can call 15 and select option 2. For Pink Button emergency, they should locate Pink Button at public places, highways, educational institutions, and sensitive locations.
What Is the Future Roadmap for These Initiatives?
A dedicated cyber crime unit has been approved to combat online harassment and blackmail targeting women and children. Work has already begun on the draft of the Punjab Online Safety Act 2026. Mobile complaint units will be dispatched to victimsâ doorsteps, and affected women and children will be able to lodge complaints through a virtual police station. The government also plans to establish a Cyber Patrol Wing and a Cyber Police Academy to strengthen enforcement capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Safe City Projects has Maryam Nawaz started in Punjab?
Maryam Nawaz has initiated the Safe City Project across 18 Phase-I cities including Multan, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Jhelum, Attock, Sargodha, and Dera Ghazi Khan. Phase-II adds 19 more cities, with expansion to all 98 tehsils by December 31, 2026.
What is the Upgraded 15 System introduced by Maryam Nawaz?
The Upgraded 15 System is a modernized emergency police response helpline featuring conference-call-enabled dispatch, real-time location tracking, online complaint monitoring, and integration with the Pink Button emergency system.
How does the Child Safety Center work under Maryam Nawaz government?
The Virtual Child Safety Centre operates under Punjab Safe Cities Authority using AI technology and social media platforms to trace missing children. Citizens report missing children by calling 15 and pressing 3 or using national helpline 0309-0000015. The Mera Pyara team conducts searches, launches awareness campaigns, and reunites children with families.
What is AI Based Challan system by Punjab Government?
The AI Based Challan system uses advanced AI cameras and automatic number plate recognition technology to automatically detect traffic violations including overspeeding, red light breaking, and helmet violations. Fines range from Rs1,000 to Rs10,000 and can be paid online via JazzCash, Easypaisa, or bank apps.
When will the Safe City Project be completed in all 18 cities?
Phase-I of 18 cities is already 100 percent completed. Phase-II covering 19 additional cities will be completed by March 31, 2026. The full expansion to all 98 tehsils is scheduled for completion by December 31, 2026.
What are CTD Reforms initiated by Maryam Nawaz?
CTD Reforms include a Rs1.5 billion grant for modernization, the Punjab Surrender Illicit Arms Act 2026, Pakistanâs first mobile counterterrorism department van, expanded jurisdiction to tribal areas, and enhanced intelligence-based operation capabilities.
What is the total budget for Maryam Nawaz Law & Order initiatives?
The total budget allocation is PKR 300 billion including PKR 200 billion for non-development expenditures and PKR 10 billion for development projects. An additional Rs5 billion has been allocated for union council surveillance expansion and Rs1.5 billion for CTD modernization.
How can I complain using the new Upgraded 15 helpline?
Call 15 from any phone, select the appropriate option for your complaint type. Track your complaint status online at feedback.psca.gop.pk. For written suggestions, WhatsApp to 0311-4340000. For Virtual Women Police Station, call 15 and select option 2.
Which cities are included in the Safe City Project by Maryam Nawaz?
Phase-I cities include Multan, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Jhelum, Attock, Sargodha, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Muzaffargarh, Sahiwal, Jhang, Hasan Abdal, Murree, Okara, Mianwali, Taxila, and Gujrat. Phase-II adds 19 more cities.
How effective is the Child Safety Center in recovering missing children?
The Mera Pyara team has successfully reunited more than 60,000 missing children and vulnerable individuals with their families, including a case of a 28-year-old missing person and a 6-year-old child from Karachi.
Disclaimer: This article provides information based on publicly available government announcements, official statements, and news reports about Maryam Nawazâs law and order initiatives in Punjab. Readers are advised to verify specific details, application procedures, and current status through official Punjab government channels including the Punjab Safe Cities Authority website and Punjab Police helpline 15 before taking any action.

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