Lahore Police have introduced a new security framework for online taxi and ride-hailing services, tightening driver verification requirements in an effort to improve passenger safety and reduce the risk of criminal misuse of transport platforms.
The initiative, announced by senior police officials, focuses on stricter background checks and real-time data integration between law enforcement databases and private ride-hailing companies operating in the city.
Authorities say the move is aimed at preventing individuals with criminal histories from entering the system as drivers.
According to Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Faisal Kamran, individuals with criminal records will no longer be eligible to work for online taxi services under the revised policy.
He said the new system is designed to enhance accountability and ensure that only verified individuals are allowed to transport passengers through digital platforms.
As part of the reforms, police have made character certificates mandatory for all current and new drivers working with ride-hailing companies. The certificates will be issued only after formal verification of identity and background checks conducted through police records.
Under an agreement signed between Lahore Police and major ride-hailing operators, driver data has now been directly linked with police systems. This integration allows authorities to screen applicants more efficiently and flag suspicious or previously blacklisted individuals.
Officials said every new driver will be required to undergo mandatory police verification before being hired by any online taxi platform. In addition, existing drivers already working in the system are being reviewed, and their records are being updated in coordination with service providers.
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The new security mechanism also places responsibility on ride-hailing companies to ensure full compliance with verification protocols. Police authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against companies failing to implement the agreed safety measures.
Official data shared by law enforcement authorities indicates that complaints involving ride-hailing services have increased in recent years, particularly in urban centres like Lahore. These complaints range from identity mismatches and unauthorised drivers to concerns over passenger safety during late-night travel.
Analysis suggests that the introduction of integrated verification systems reflects a broader shift toward digitised policing and platform accountability. As ride-hailing services expand in Pakistan’s major cities, regulators are increasingly focusing on pre-emptive safety mechanisms rather than post-incident response.
Transport analysts note that similar systems have already been adopted in several countries, where driver background checks are synchronised with national identity databases. Such systems are considered effective in reducing impersonation risks and improving trust in digital transport services.
“Linking ride-hailing platforms with police databases is a critical step toward improving urban transport safety,” said a transport security expert. “However, consistent monitoring and enforcement will be essential for long-term success.”
Officials said the new framework is part of a wider effort to modernise urban policing and improve citizen safety through technology-driven solutions. They added that cooperation from private companies will be key to ensuring the system functions effectively.
Authorities have also urged passengers to verify driver details through official applications before beginning their journeys and to report any suspicious activity immediately.
The implementation of the new policy is expected to be rolled out in phases, with full compliance required from all ride-hailing operators in Lahore in the coming months.
