The newly introduced e-challan system has issued over 15,500 fines worth more than Rs100 million since October 27, according to Karachi Traffic Police data released on Thursday.

Traffic police officials said that 15,539 e-challans were generated across Karachi using 1,076 cameras installed at key locations, including Sharae Faisal, Drigh Road, and Lyari.

The highest number of violations — 7,083 challans — were issued for not wearing seatbelts, followed by 1,919 each for speeding and riding without a helmet.

Another 829 fines were issued for signal violations.

The officials estimate that seatbelt-related fines alone total more than Rs70.8 million, while helmet and speeding violations amount to roughly Rs12.2 million and Rs9.6 million, respectively.

According to DSP (Admin) Traffic Police Kashif Nadeem, 2,662 e-challans were issued on October 27, 4,301 on October 28, and 5,978 on October 29 — a rapid increase in just three days.

He said that a 50% discount will be offered if the fine is paid within 14 days, but if the payment is delayed beyond 21 days, the fine amount will double, while persistent defaulters may face a blockade of their identity cards.

The system currently targets vehicles registered in Sindh, though consultations with other provinces are underway to expand enforcement to vehicles registered in other provinces.

Kashif Nadeem said the city’s camera network would be expanded from 1,076 to 12,000 in the coming months to enhance monitoring and ensure compliance.

He added that citizens can visit facilitation centres to verify or challenge their challans.

A three-member committee will review disputes and cancel fines found to have been issued due to technical errors.

Meanwhile, citizens have voiced complaints over the heavy amount, saying the e-challan system was launched without adequate preparations, as speed limit and no-parking signs do not exist in several areas.

Some motorists also pointed out that vehicles registered outside Sindh were not being fined, creating a perception of unequal enforcement.

Under the new rules, driving in the wrong direction will incur fines of Rs25,000 for motorcycles and Rs30,000 for cars, while violating a traffic signal will cost Rs5,000 and Rs50,000 fines.

Despite criticism, some motorists praised the e-challan system’s efficiency but urged authorities to reduce penalty amounts and improve road signage before full-scale implementation.