The Sindh High Court (SHC) has issued notices to the Sindh government, DIG Traffic, and other relevant authorities after the Bus Owners Association filed a petition challenging the e-challan system implemented in Karachi.
The court has directed all parties to submit their responses by November 25.
During the hearing, the court also ordered that all similar petitions related to the e-challan system be combined for a joint hearing.
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Representing the petitioners, Advocate Munsif Jan argued that the notification issued by the Sindh government is not legally valid, as it fails to meet the required legal procedures.
He further contended that the fine rates are unfair and unreasonable, adding that poor road conditions and unclear traffic signs make it difficult for drivers to comply with traffic rules.
READ: Karachi E-Challan system: Check full list of fines over traffic violation
According to the petition, imposing a fine of Rs. 1 lakh on commercial buses is excessive and could “break the backbone” of the transport business.
While acknowledging that camera surveillance is a positive step, the petition maintained that the amount of fines is unbearable for transporters.
The petition also stated that under Section 121-A of the Motor Vehicle Act 2025, only a magistrate has the authority to impose penalties, not the administrative authorities.
READ: How will E-Challan control heavy traffic in Karachi?
It further highlighted that many areas in the city lack designated bus stops, and drivers are often fined even when they stop briefly to pick up or drop off passengers.
The Sindh government, along with the provincial and regional traffic authorities and the DIG Traffic, have been made respondents in the case.
