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In a move aimed at encouraging timely fine payments and improving compliance, the Karachi Traffic Police have announced major discounts and concessions on e-challan fines. The new policy seeks to promote responsible driving while offering relief to motorists who promptly settle their penalties.
Under the initiative, first-time violators can have their fines waived entirely by submitting a written apology. For second-time violations, those who clear their fines within 14 days will receive a 50% discount, while all fines must be paid within 21 days, after which the full amount applies.
An official explained,
“A Rs. 5,000 signal-jumping fine can be reduced to Rs. 2,500 if paid within two weeks this step is designed to promote responsibility rather than punishment.”
However, the announcement comes amid growing criticism of the E-Challan system’s accuracy. Several citizens have reported being fined for violations involving stolen or incorrectly identified vehicles, raising concerns about data reliability. One case involved a man fined for not wearing a helmet when he was reportedly at home, highlighting the system’s technical lapses.
Adding to the controversy, a viral video recently showed a traffic officer riding a motorcycle without a number plate, using the wrong indicator, and carrying a pistol while on duty near Karachi’s Expo Center fueling public anger over what citizens described as “double standards.”
Despite the criticism, officials emphasize that the new concession policy is part of broader efforts to modernize the traffic management system, encourage law-abiding behavior, and restore public trust in digital enforcement measures.
