KARACHI: The bus owners’ association has filed a petition in the Sindh High Court challenging the recently introduced E-Challan system in Karachi.
The petition, filed through the bus owners’ lawyer, contends that the Sindh government’s notification was unlawful as it failed to meet the required legal standards. “The rate of fines is not just, given the condition of the city’s roads and unclear traffic signs,” the petition stated.
According to the petitioners, fines of up to Rs. one lakh on commercial buses will severely impact the transport business. While acknowledging the benefits of the camera monitoring system, the lawyer argued that the fines are “unbearable.”
The petition further argued that under the Motor Vehicle Act 2025, only a magistrate can decide on punishments for traffic violations. It also highlighted that traffic courts have yet to be established, making the imposition of fines premature.
Petitioners pointed out the lack of fixed bus stops, noting that vehicles are being fined for stopping to let passengers on or off.
The Sindh government recently launched the E-Challan system as part of its efforts to improve traffic management in Karachi. While some have welcomed the initiative, many citizens and transport operators have expressed concern over the high fines and practical challenges of the system.
