Many citizens argue that the operation lacks legal backing and could negatively impact other essential traffic enforcement efforts, such as campaigns against helmetless riding, driving without licenses, and traveling in the wrong direction.

Over the past three days, nearly 3,000 motorbikes and other vehicles have been impounded for various offenses, including missing number plates, lack of registration, and not wearing helmets.

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In a similar campaign last month, more than 43,000 motorcycles were seized. However, a significant portion of these did not have the updated number plates issued by the excise department, leaving many older bikes non-compliant.

The public has voiced frustration, especially over the seizure of bikes with older or makeshift plates. Critics argue that the move is unfair to lower-income citizens who depend on their bikes for daily work and commuting.

There are also legal concerns surrounding the crackdown, with many pointing out that no existing law clearly authorizes vehicle impoundment solely due to the absence of excise-issued number plates.

A senior traffic official acknowledged that the Motor Vehicles Ordinance does not support this action legally. In response, citizens and experts are calling for an awareness campaign and a grace period before strict enforcement continues.

Despite criticism, the DIG-Traffic has defended the operation, claiming the excise department already has over 60,000 number plates available for immediate distribution.