KARACHI: The Constitutional Bench of the Sindh High Court (SHC) has sought written replies from all stakeholders regarding the implementation of E-challans for traffic violations, adjourning the hearing until after the summer judicial vacations.
Case Proceedings
A two-member constitutional bench, headed by Justice Yousuf Ali Sayeed, presided over several petitions challenging the current E-challan system. During the proceedings, the government prosecutor requested additional time to submit a formal written response. Advocate Tariq Mansoor, representing the petitioners, highlighted that despite nine months having passed, most departments—except the Transport Department—have failed to submit their replies. He urged for an immediate hearing, citing the case as a sensitive matter involving the fundamental rights of citizens. In response to the urgency, Justice Yousuf Ali Sayeed remarked that while every case brought before the court is sensitive and important, it is not possible to decide every matter on a daily basis.
The Core Dispute: Fines vs. Affordability
The hearing brought to light a significant divide between the authorities and the public representatives. The counsel for the Transport Department informed the court that traffic accidents have decreased by 40% since the introduction of the E-challan system. However, the petitioners argued that traffic fines have been hiked by 1,000% to 5,000% compared to 2023 levels. They contended that with a minimum wage of PKR 40,000 and rising unemployment, citizens cannot afford such exorbitant penalties. Advocate Tariq Mansoor further pointed out that under the Traffic Engineering Bureau Act, the DG KDA is responsible for signals on all roads, while 106 roads specifically fall under the jurisdiction of the Mayor of Karachi.
Conclusion
The court has granted a final extension to all concerned parties to submit their written responses. The matter stands adjourned until the conclusion of the summer judicial break.
