Starting January 1, 2025, Rawalpindi will introduce a new era in traffic management with the launch of an e-challan system designed to monitor and penalize traffic violations through the use of Safe City cameras. This initiative, which is in its final phase, is expected to significantly improve road safety and traffic discipline, while also assisting in identifying criminal activities across the city. The project, modeled after successful systems in other parts of Punjab, aims to provide greater accountability and transparency in traffic law enforcement.
The Safe City cameras, strategically installed at key locations such as COD Chowk, Liaquat Bagh, Raja Bazaar, Chandni Chowk, Jinnah Park, and Faizabad Metro Station, are already operating with round-the-clock surveillance. These high-tech cameras are not only capable of monitoring traffic violations but also play a crucial role in identifying and preventing criminal activities. As part of the initiative, any violation detected by these cameras will lead to an e-challan, which will be sent directly to the violators’ mobile phones or home addresses, ensuring swift action and reducing the need for direct police interaction.
The new e-challan system, under the supervision of the Punjab Safe City Authority (PSCA), will cover a wide range of traffic offenses. Key violations include motorcyclists not using front or rear indicators, failing to wear helmets, or riding with non-compliant number plates. Those caught committing such offenses will face fines, with a fine of Rs. 1,500 for not wearing a helmet, and Rs. 2,000 for riding with a non-specimen number plate. In addition, motorcyclists who ride in the fast lane or without proper documentation, such as a license or national identity card, will also be penalized.
The system will also target car drivers engaging in unsafe practices. Overspeeding, driving in the wrong direction, or failing to use seat belts will result in fines. Vehicles with tinted windows or non-computerized number plates will be subject to additional penalties. The goal is to ensure greater compliance with road safety regulations and deter drivers from engaging in dangerous behaviors.
One of the key benefits of this e-challan system is the photographic evidence provided by the Safe City cameras. This visual proof of violations will help eliminate disputes over fines, offering a clear and irrefutable record of the offense. Traffic authorities are confident that the introduction of this system will resolve many public grievances regarding the issuing of unnecessary or erroneous fines, ensuring a fairer and more transparent process.
In cases where minors are found riding motorcycles, the system will go a step further, holding guardians accountable. An FIR may be filed against the guardians of minors caught riding without helmets or violating other traffic regulations, highlighting the commitment to enforcing road safety across all age groups.
Once fully operational, the Safe City project will expand its coverage to include more traffic violations and further extend its reach to major highways. The aim is to create a comprehensive system that not only promotes safety on the roads but also enhances overall traffic management in Rawalpindi and beyond.
This initiative is part of a larger vision to modernize traffic enforcement in Punjab, providing an efficient, tech-driven solution to the longstanding issue of traffic violations. With its emphasis on transparency, accountability, and safety, the e-challan system is expected to bring about a significant transformation in how traffic laws are enforced and how the public engages with the legal system on the roads.
