KARACHI: The enforcement of the e-challan system in Karachi sparked a strong public backlash on Tuesday. Motorists criticised the Sindh government for ignoring the city’s bad road conditions while imposing heavy fines.
According to the Karachi Traffic Police, officers issued over 2,662 e-challans within six hours. The fines exceeded Rs12 million during the early phase of enforcement.
Thousands fined in hours
Officials issued 419 challans for overspeeding and three for lane violations. They recorded four stop line breaches and 1,535 violations for not wearing seat belts. Police also issued 166 fines for running red lights and 507 for riding without helmets.
Authorities called the system a step toward safer and disciplined driving. However, residents described the move as unfair and poorly timed.
Poor roads add to frustration
Citizens argued that the government should fix damaged roads first. They pointed out potholes, cracks, and uneven patches on M A Jinnah Road and Sharea Faisal. Drivers said these conditions make daily travel unsafe and uncomfortable.
A commuter said the government “penalises drivers instead of repairing roads.”
Traffic congestion worsening
Residents blamed ongoing development works for severe congestion in the city. They cited University Road, where construction of public transport projects has created long traffic jams.
“Traffic jams at multiple points on University Road have become a daily routine,” one driver said. He added that the e-challan drive “punishes motorists instead of resolving problems.”
Police defend digital enforcement
Traffic officials insisted that the digital challan system will improve compliance with traffic laws. They said it will help reduce road accidents and encourage responsible driving.
