Karachi to Get Traffic Courts, Heavy Fines on Violation

The Sindh government has decided to establish traffic courts in Karachi, enabling citizens to challenge traffic fines, as confirmed by Sindh Police Chief Ghulam Nabi Memon during a conversation with ARY News.

According to the IGP, “Traffic fine must be as much to discourage citizens to commit the violation again.” He shared that the Sindh cabinet has approved new laws, which will come into effect once the chief minister issues a summary.

The Motor Vehicle Ordinance will be amended through the provincial assembly. Under the new law, traffic fines will see a major hike — from Rs 5,000 to Rs 250,000, especially for violations that could result in fatalities. The IGP further explained, “The fine will be double in 21 days if unpaid, and driving license will be cancelled after 90 days.”

In extreme cases, “If the fine not being paid, the national identity card will be blocked after 180 days,” he said.

Once the law is implemented, traffic courts will be introduced, where “Citizens could file plea in traffic courts against the fine. They will be provided evidence of their mistake in the court.”

The IGP also noted plans to end the manual system of traffic fines to ensure transparency, especially in light of the increased penalties. “We don’t want someone questions transparency after hike in the fine,” he stated.

The new system will also include e-ticketing, and cameras and trackers will be mandatory for heavy vehicles. Violators will receive e-challans immediately after a violation is recorded. The move aims to improve traffic conditions and enforcement across Karachi.