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| Petition Challenging Karachi’s E-Challan System / Photo File (MM News) |
The Sindh High Court (SHC) has issued notices to provincial authorities over a petition challenging the recently enforced e-challan system in Karachi, questioning its legality, fairness, and implementation standards.
The Markazi Muslim League filed the plea, arguing that the Sindh government’s digital traffic fine system is discriminatory and burdensome for Karachi’s citizens. The e-challan system, introduced last month to curb traffic violations, has faced public backlash due to alleged technical flaws and excessive fines.
During Tuesday’s hearing, the SHC directed all respondents — including the Chief Secretary Sindh, Inspector General of Police, DIG Traffic, NADRA, and the Excise Department — to submit their replies by November 25. The court also ordered the petition to be consolidated with other similar cases already under consideration.
The petitioner claimed Karachi’s crumbling infrastructure and poor road conditions make it unjust to impose heavy fines on residents, calling it a violation of basic rights. The plea further objected to the government’s reported threat of blocking national identity cards over unpaid fines.
Highlighting inconsistencies, the petition stated that traffic fines in Lahore are as low as Rs200, while Karachi residents are fined up to Rs5,000 for similar violations. “How can two laws exist within the same country?” the petitioner asked.
The court’s upcoming hearings are expected to determine whether the current e-challan framework aligns with constitutional and administrative fairness.
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