E-challan system brought visible improvement: DIG

Says in past month 58% of all e-challans issued to luxury vehicles, 23% to motorcycles

KARACHI:

The e-challan system has brought a visible improvement in traffic discipline in the metropolitan city, with a growing number of motorists adhering to helmet and seat belt rules and stopping at traffic signals, claimed Traffic Police DIG Pir Muhammad Shah on Tuesday.

Speaking to members of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), he shared the latest data to dispel widespread misperceptions. In the past month, 58% of all e-challans were issued to luxury vehicles, while motorcycles, which constitute nearly 60% of city's traffic, accounted for only 23% of the tickets, he added.

About criticism regarding fine amounts, he dispelled the perception that Sindh imposes much higher penalties than Lahore. A motorcycle challan costs Rs2,000 in Lahore and Rs2,500 in Sindh, he said, adding that although Sindh has set Rs5,000 as the formal challan rate, a 50% discount is available if the payment is made within 14 days - a concession not available in Lahore.

DIG Shah also announced that a traffic information chatbot will be launched on Monday to assist citizens with challan-related queries and general traffic guidance. He added that he has proposed establishing a Karachi Traffic Management Company, which would receive a portion of the challan revenue to repair the city's infrastructure and address public grievances.