Karachi has introduced a new digital enforcement system to curb illegal parking, launching automated e-challans through specially equipped “robot cars” on two of the city’s busiest roads. The move marks a major step in improving traffic flow and reducing congestion in commercial hubs.
Karachi Police confirmed that the robot cars fitted with high-precision cameras will patrol Saddar and Tariq Road at slow speeds and instantly issue electronic fines to vehicles stopped in no-parking zones. Officials said the technology will replace slow manual ticketing and help maintain smoother traffic movement in areas already struggling with heavy vehicular pressure.
The initiative is part of a broader traffic modernization effort.
“This system will enhance enforcement and support better traffic management,” an official involved in the rollout said, noting that the automated approach allows continuous monitoring without human delays.
At the same time, the Sindh government is reviewing Karachi’s existing e-challan fine structure following public criticism that several penalties are disproportionately high. Discussions are ongoing to revise and possibly reduce multiple categories of fines, with a final decision expected after consultations between police authorities and provincial officials.
The first phase of robot-car deployment is expected to guide future expansion to other busy corridors if the system delivers the intended improvements.