Syed Saif Ul Hassan 
Oct 31, 2025
Karachi's newly launched electronic challan (e-challan) system by the Sindh traffic police is facing backlash after a citizen reported serious errors.
The individual, who received a fine of Rs2,500 for riding without a helmet, claimed he was at home at the time of the supposed violation mentioned on the ticker under his name.
Highlighting visible contradictions in the number plate shown in the photo, he expressed concerns about the reliability of the e-challan system active in Sindh, questioning where ordinary citizens could seek help for such mistakes.
In response to the rising criticism and public outrage, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah instructed traffic authorities to waive the first e-challan for motorists as a goodwill gesture. However, he warned that those repeating the offence would face stricter penalties.
In just three days, Karachi registered a massive surge of 12,942 e-challans issued, with 2,622 on the first day alone, Geo News reported.
In the Sindh Assembly, MPA Jamaat-e-Islami Muhammad Farooq called for an immediate review of the e-challan system, terming the fines “unjust” and criticising the lack of proper road infrastructure in Karachi.
Farooq highlighted the notable disparity in fines between Karachi and Lahore, where penalties are significantly lower.
Besides, the Markazi Muslim League has lodged a constitutional petition in the Sindh High Court, challenging the legality of the e-challan system.
The petition states that citizens are facing threats of identity card blocking for unpaid fines and demands urgent attention to the issue, emphasising the burden of heavy fines on Karachi’s residents amid poor road infrastructure.
