Public anger over the recently introduced e-challan system in Karachi and hefty fines imposed under it continues to grow, with both citizens and opposition parties demanding a review of the policy.

Residents’ concern over the e-challan mounted as in just four days after the imposition of the new system, authorities have issued 18,733 e-challans across the city.

According to police data, 5,791 challans were recorded within the last 24 hours alone — including 3,546 for not wearing seatbelts and 1,555 for motorcyclists riding without helmets.

While some citizens have welcomed the e-challan initiative as a positive step toward traffic discipline, many have urged authorities to reduce fine amounts, calling the penalties “too heavy for the average commuter.”

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) leader Faisal Subzwari strongly criticised the Sindh government over the system, saying it was imposed on Karachi “without proper planning or preparation.”

“In just three days, thousands of challans have been issued, and millions of rupees collected in fines,” he said.

“The revenue generated from Karachi’s challans exceeds what the province earns from agricultural taxes. The government should hand over this money to the Karachi mayor so the city can actually benefit.”

At a Karachi City Council session, opposition members also staged a protest over the e-challan system.

Jamaat-e-Islami’s Junaid Makati questioned why such enforcement was limited to Karachi.

“Why doesn’t the Sindh government implement challans in Larkana or Nawabshah?” he asked.

“Karachi’s roads are broken, public facilities are neglected, but the government is quick to impose fines.”

Taking a jibe at the provincial administration, he added, “Karachi’s youth don’t get jobs — but dacoits from Katcha certainly do.”

Two-month relief

Meanwhile, the Sindh Excise and Taxation Department has granted Karachi motorists an additional two months to install the new Ajrak-design vehicle number plates.

According to a notification issued by the department, citizens can now obtain the modern, security-enhanced plates until December 31, 2025.

Earlier, the deadline for the installation of the new plates was October 31.

The plates feature upgraded security elements that will make vehicle identification and tracking more efficient, officials said.