Karachi E-Challan System Faces Legal Challenge in High Court

Petitions Filed Against “Discriminatory” Traffic Fines

The Sindh High Court is currently hearing petitions filed by Jamaat-e-Islami, bus owners, and citizens challenging the newly introduced e-challan system in Karachi. The system, implemented by the Sindh government last month to regulate traffic violations, has drawn criticism for imposing significantly higher fines compared to other cities. The court has issued notices to the DIG Traffic and other concerned authorities, seeking their responses before the next hearing on December 11.

Disparity in Fines Sparks Outrage

One of the key arguments in the petitions is the stark difference in penalty amounts between Karachi and Lahore. While Lahore imposes a Rs200 fine for traffic violations, Karachi residents face a steep Rs5,000 penalty—a disparity petitioners call “discrimination against Karachi’s citizens.” The court, however, cautioned against direct comparisons, stating, “Every place has its own dynamics.”

Bus Owners Raise Concerns Over Enforcement

Representatives of bus owners argued that the e-challan system penalizes them unfairly, as drivers are fined for stopping to pick up passengers in the absence of proper bus stops. The court responded by directing them to use designated stops, to which the lawyer countered that Karachi lacks adequate bus infrastructure. Justice Adnan Iqbal Chaudhry acknowledged the issue, remarking, “We are also living in this city and know it well.”

Infrastructure Woes and Legal Rights Violations

The petitioners also highlighted Karachi’s crumbling road infrastructure, arguing that citizens should not bear the burden of heavy fines when basic amenities are lacking. Additionally, they contended that threatening to block national identity cards over unpaid challans violates fundamental rights. The court has deferred further proceedings until all parties submit their responses.