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| Photo File (AI/Sora) |
Residents of Karachi may soon get long-awaited relief from heavy traffic fines as the Sindh government is considering a significant reduction in e-challan penalties for cars and motorcycles.
The e-challan system was introduced in Karachi last year to curb traffic violations, after which vehicle owners began receiving hefty fines for breaking traffic laws. However, the high amounts sparked widespread public concern, particularly among motorcyclists and car owners, who repeatedly demanded a reduction in penalties due to the financial burden.
Following growing public pressure, the Sindh government is now reviewing proposals to reduce e-challan fines by up to 50 percent. According to sources, fines for motorcycles may be reduced from Rs5,000 to Rs2,500, while penalties for cars with engine capacity below 1000cc are also expected to be cut proportionally.
Officials say the government is also evaluating suggestions to temporarily freeze or further rationalize traffic fines to ease public hardship. A final decision is expected next week during a special committee meeting chaired by the Sindh Interior Minister. Once approved, a formal notification of the revised fines is likely to be issued shortly.
It is worth noting that last year, the Sindh government amended the 12th Schedule under Section 121-A of the Motor Vehicle Ordinance 1965, introducing a new structure of fines and demerit points for traffic violations across the province.
At the time, Sindh’s Senior Minister for Information and Transport, Sharjeel Inam Memon, stated that the objective of stricter penalties was to discourage dangerous driving behavior and improve road safety by protecting human lives. However, authorities now appear ready to strike a balance between enforcement and public affordability
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