In a move that may bring much-needed relief to Karachi’s motorists, the Sindh government is reportedly considering reducing e-challan fines under the newly launched AI-powered Traffic Regulation and Citation System (Tracs).
The decision comes after widespread public criticism and growing concern over the hefty fines issued since the system’s introduction. According to reports, within just one week of its launch, the traffic police issued around 30,000 e-challans, amounting to millions of rupees in fines for common violations such as not wearing seatbelts, using tinted windows, and riding motorcycles without helmets.
The Tracs system, inaugurated by the Sindh Chief Minister on October 27, was designed to modernize Karachi’s traffic management by leveraging artificial intelligence and digital monitoring tools. The system uses advanced surveillance cameras to automatically detect and record traffic violations, generating challans linked to vehicle registration data.
While the initiative was intended to promote safer driving and reduce road accidents, it quickly drew backlash from citizens who complained that the fines were excessively high and unaffordable for many daily commuters. Social media was flooded with complaints and memes as frustrated drivers shared screenshots of their unexpected e-challans.
In response, the Sindh government has begun reviewing fine categories and penalty amounts, signaling a possible downward revision. Officials believe this adjustment will help ensure better compliance while maintaining fairness in enforcement.
A senior official from the traffic department said that the government wants to strike a balance between strict enforcement and public affordability. “We don’t want the system to feel punitive; it’s about encouraging discipline, not burdening people,” the official added.
The Karachi Traffic Police have also assured that the review process will be transparent and aimed at improving public trust in the digital enforcement mechanism.
If approved, the revised fines could come into effect in the coming weeks, marking a major step toward making smart traffic management more acceptable and sustainable for Karachi’s citizens.
Experts say that while automation in traffic policing is a positive step toward accountability, its success depends on fair implementation and clear communication with the public.
For now, Karachi’s drivers can take comfort in the possibility that lighter fines may soon replace the heavy penalties currently being enforced.
