The Punjab Excise and Taxation Department on Wednesday approved significant excise hikes on 64 premium vehicle registration numbers. The increase aims to maximize revenue and ensure transparency in online auctions.
Under the new rates, single-digit numbers such as 1, 3, 57, and 9 now have a base price of Rs100,000. The famous 786 number has jumped from Rs10,000 to Rs100,000. Double-digit numbers will cost Rs50,000, up from Rs7,000, while triple-digit numbers increased to Rs25,000 from Rs5,000.
Authorities have also announced the re-auction of 46,600 unsold numbers. These include 10,400 car numbers, 33,300 motorcycle numbers, and 3,000 commercial vehicle numbers, all now subject to revised rates.
Officials explained that the excise hikes reflect growing demand for premium numbers and aim to maintain a fair and transparent sales process through e-auctions. Over Rs8 billion has already been collected from previous auctions, signaling strong public interest.
The department confirmed that the new rates will take effect starting this month. Citizens participating in online auctions will need to follow updated procedures to purchase these high-demand registration numbers.
Experts say the excise hikes are part of broader efforts by provincial authorities to increase revenue while curbing misuse and favoritism in the allocation of premium vehicle numbers. Officials emphasized that all transactions will occur online to maintain transparency.
The move has drawn attention from vehicle owners and dealers, who anticipate higher competition for premium numbers. Authorities encourage early registration and participation in e-auctions to secure popular numbers under the revised rates.
This initiative highlights Punjab’s focus on combining technology with fiscal policy to boost revenue collection and streamline public services.
In other news read more about: Vehicle Registration And Transfer in Sindh Now Require Third-Party Insurance
