KARACHI: The Karachi Traffic Police have introduced a revised E-Challan system featuring substantially higher fines aimed at tackling rampant traffic violations and improving discipline on the city’s congested roads. The new penalties—significantly steeper than those in Lahore—are part of a broader effort to ensure road safety and reduce accidents across Pakistan’s largest metropolis.
Key Violation Fines: Karachi vs Lahore
| Violation | Karachi Fine | Lahore Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Wrong-Way Driving | Rs25,000 (motorcycles) • Rs30,000 (cars) • Rs50,000 (jeeps) • Rs100,000 (trucks) | Rs200–Rs500 |
| Exceeding Speed Limit | Rs5,000 minimum (higher for severe offences) | Rs200 (motorcycles) • Rs500 (cars) |
| Traffic Signal Violation | Rs500 (motorcycles/cars) • Rs1,000 (light/heavy vehicles) | Rs200 (motorcycles) • Rs300 (cars) |
| Overloading | Rs50,000 (vehicles) | Rs200–Rs500 (private vehicles) • Rs750 (PSVs) |
The sharp increase in penalties underscores Karachi authorities’ determination to enforce traffic laws more strictly—particularly for high-risk violations such as wrong-way driving and speeding.
How the New E-Challan System Works
The upgraded electronic challan system employs AI-enabled cameras installed across major intersections and highways to automatically detect and record violations. Each violation is cross-checked with the Excise Department’s vehicle database, and challans are dispatched directly to offenders via SMS and courier.
Each e-challan includes:
Photographic proof of the violation
Fine amount and due date
Penalty points added to the driver’s record
Drivers will receive a 50% discount if fines are paid within 14 days. Unpaid challans after 21 days will double automatically.
Major Violations and New Penalty Rates
1. Wrong-Way Driving — Now a Major Offence
Wrong-way driving, a frequent cause of fatal accidents, will now incur record-high fines:
Motorcycles: Rs25,000
Cars: Rs30,000
Jeeps: Rs50,000
Trucks: Rs100,000
Authorities said this step is meant to “end the culture of reckless shortcuts” and promote safer traffic movement.
2. Exceeding Speed Limits
Speeding violations now carry a minimum penalty of Rs5,000, with higher fines for repeated or severe offences. The system is designed to automatically flag repeat offenders for stricter enforcement.
3. Traffic Signal Violations
Signal violations—often leading to intersection collisions—will now cost:
Motorcycles/Cars: Rs500
Light/Heavy Vehicles: Rs1,000
Though relatively moderate, officials say these penalties aim to encourage compliance at traffic lights and improve road safety at junctions.
4. Vehicle Overloading
Overloading, which strains Karachi’s infrastructure and increases accident risks, now attracts a flat fine of Rs50,000, regardless of vehicle size.
Safer Roads Through Stricter Enforcement
While motorists have expressed concern over the steep fines, traffic authorities argue that the new penalties are essential for deterring violations in a city long plagued by disorderly traffic. Officials believe that consistent enforcement through the E-Challan system will lead to more disciplined driving, reduced accidents, and smoother road flow over time.
Disclaimer: Fines May Vary by Violation Type and Official Notification
The fines listed above are based on the most recently available information from Karachi and Lahore traffic authorities and may vary depending on vehicle category, offence severity, or recent regulatory updates. Official rates are subject to periodic revision by provincial transport and traffic departments.
Motorists are advised to confirm the latest applicable fines through Karachi Traffic Police and City Traffic Police Lahore websites or their respective mobile applications before payment or appeal.
