Transporters challenge heavy traffic fines in court

KARACHI:

The Karachi Bus Owners Association has filed a petition in the Sindh High Court challenging the recently introduced electronic challan (e-challan) system, terming it "illegal and oppressive."

The association's president Farooq Ahmed filed a constitutional petition through advocate Munsif Jan Gujjar. The petition contends that the government's notification imposing heavy fines is unlawful and unjustified.

The association argues that the penalties are excessively high - the first challan is set at Rs 200,000, while a second offence carries a Rs 300,000 fine. Additionally, a Rs 15,000 fine has been imposed for carrying passengers on the bus roof, and Rs 5,000 for motorcyclists not wearing helmets.