If you drive around Karachi, one thing is becoming clear: the era of roadside ticketing by hand may be giving way to something far more automated. The provincial government of Sindh has launched a new e-challan traffic system as part of the Karachi Safe City Project, and here is everything you need to know.

What is the E-Challan System?

 

• • The system kicks in with 1,076 cameras already installed along major thoroughfares in the first phase. A full rollout aims to reach 12,000 cameras across the city, including toll plazas. (DAWN)

• • Once a violation is detected, a challan (traffic ticket) is issued digitally and mailed to the address linked with the vehicle’s number plate, as recorded in the Sindh Excise & Taxation Department database.

• • The payment window: You have 21 days to pay. But if you settle within 14 days, you unlock a 50% waiver. Miss the 21-day window, and the amount doubles from day 22.

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How to Appeal If You Think It’s Unfair

Mistakes happen. If you believe the ticket was wrong:

 

• • There are appeal desks at 11 police stations across Karachi (addresses printed on the back of the challan) where you can register a complaint.

• • A three-member committee (led by a senior superintendent of police and a CPLC official) reviews appeals. Processing takes ~3-4 days, and during that time, the 21-day timer is paused.

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What Happens If You Don’t Pay

This isn’t just “ignore & move on” territory:

 

• • Non-payment for three months can result in your driver’s license being suspended.

• • More serious: After six months, the issue can escalate to the National Database & Registration Authority (NADRA) to block your CNIC (national ID).

• • A demerit-points scheme is also built in: accumulate 30 demerit points in a year, and your license can be suspended.

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Why This Matters: Fear, Responsibility & Accountability

According to senior officials, the goal is threefold:

 

• • Fear: Knowing cameras are watching may make drivers think twice. Dawn

• • Responsibility: Drivers become aware that their actions are being recorded.

• • Accountability: No more discretion left to individual traffic officers on the road; it’s about uniform enforcement and transparency.

Additionally, citizens can use the Trax4Citizens app (via Sindh Police) to:

 

• • Register with CNIC, mobile number, and email.

• • View vehicles registered under your CNIC.

• • Track violations and warnings, understand driving patterns, and take proactive steps to avoid future tickets.

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What Drivers Should Do Now

Here are some actionable tips for motorists in Karachi:

 

1. 1. Stay extra vigilant for traffic rules, speed limits, lane discipline, and signals. With automated monitoring, small errors may trigger a challan.

1. 1. Ensure your vehicle’s registration address is up to date with the Excise & Taxation Department so you receive any notices.

1. 1. Download and register on the Trax4Citizens app, especially if you drive more than one vehicle or own commercial vehicles.

1. 1. If you get a ticket, act swiftly. Pay within 14 days to benefit from the 50% waiver.

1. 1. If you believe the ticket is incorrect, use the official appeal process early; it freezes the clock and can save you headaches.

1. 1. Maintain your driving behavior long-term: remember the demerit-points system is real, and accumulation may affect your license.

1. 1. Keep documentation: if you appeal, retain proof of your case (photos, timings, etc.) in case it’s needed.

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Karachi’s new e-challan system marks a significant shift from the old manual enforcement model to a more tech-driven, transparent approach. For drivers, that means less “friendly” discretion and more predictable, automated accountability.

If you drive in Karachi, it’s no longer just about “avoiding the traffic cop”; it’s about being law-aware, rule-aware, and digitally ready. Follow the rules, stay informed via the app, and you should navigate this transition smoothly.