Karachi traffic challans have resumed on major roads as authorities reintroduce on-the-spot fines to address increasing violations and misuse of vehicle number plates across the city.
During an event organized by the National Forum for Environment and Health, traffic police chief Peer Muhammad Shah announced that officers will once again be deployed at key intersections with authority to issue fines immediately.
The decision comes after a noticeable rise in motorists deliberately hiding or removing registration number plates to evade detection by the city’s limited camera-based enforcement system.
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Officials said that around 70 percent of current traffic violations involve vehicles with unreadable or missing number plates, while another 30 percent relate to incorrect vehicle registration details.
Authorities had earlier withdrawn on-the-spot challan powers due to public complaints regarding harassment and corruption at busy intersections, aiming to ease pressure on commuters.
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However, the reliance on electronic challans exposed enforcement gaps, as the camera system currently covers only about 10 percent of Karachi, leaving the majority of roads without automated monitoring.
Traffic police have now identified nearly 60 major routes across the city as violation hotspots, particularly for one-way traffic breaches and reckless driving behaviors.
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DIG Shah stated that upgraded surveillance systems will soon be installed on key arteries, including Sharae Faisal, to detect additional violations such as mobile phone usage while driving and misuse of fast lanes by heavy vehicles.
Motorists have been warned that vehicles without proper number plates will face immediate fines, while those awaiting official Ajrak-designed plates are advised to carry proof of application.
The renewed enforcement strategy aims to improve road discipline, enhance compliance with traffic laws, and reduce accidents in one of Pakistan’s busiest metropolitan areas.
