A petition challenging Karachi’s AI-based e-challan system has been filed in Sindh High Court, raising concerns over unfair fines and lack of proper infrastructure for traffic enforcement. The petition, submitted by Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi chief Munim Zafar along with other citizens, argues that residents are being penalized excessively without clear legal procedures or adequate road safety measures. According to the petition, the automated system relies on CCTV cameras and artificial intelligence to identify violations, sending fines directly to vehicle owners irrespective of who was driving at the time.
Usman Farooq Advocate, representing the petitioners, told the court that the e-challan system disproportionately penalizes vehicle owners, rather than the actual offenders, and is being applied without consideration for poor road conditions in Karachi and across Sindh. He highlighted the absence of essential traffic infrastructure, including speed limit signs and zebra crossings, and noted that ongoing development projects frequently force traffic police to direct vehicles onto incorrect lanes. Farooq cited examples such as the delayed Karimabad underpass and deteriorating conditions of major roads like Jahangir Road and New Karachi Road, emphasizing that imposing heavy fines in such circumstances is discriminatory and unjust.
The petition further claims that the primary aim of the e-challan system appears to be revenue generation rather than driver reform, creating an additional financial burden for citizens who already contribute a significant share of federal and provincial revenue. Issues within the Excise Department exacerbate the problem, with delays and corruption making it difficult to transfer vehicle ownership promptly. This results in many vehicles operating on open letters, leading to fines being sent to incorrect owners. Petitioners also raised concerns about fine amounts, pointing out that a minor violation such as wrong-side driving or speeding for a motorcycle in Karachi carries a penalty of Rs 5,000, while similar violations in Lahore are fined only Rs 200, highlighting a clear disparity in enforcement.
The petition requests the Sindh High Court to suspend the e-challan system and associated heavy fines immediately. It seeks a declaration that the AI-based system is illegal in the absence of proper infrastructure and calls for an end to discriminatory treatment of citizens in Karachi. By challenging the current setup, the petition underscores the need for equitable traffic enforcement, transparent procedures, and improved road safety measures. The case now awaits further hearings, as residents and legal representatives push for reforms to ensure that automated traffic management does not unfairly penalize citizens while maintaining public safety.
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