In response to growing public criticism over the recently launched e-ticketing system, particularly heavy fines and inadequate road infrastructure, the Sindh government is considering lowering the penalty amounts for several traffic violations.
On 27 October, the Sindh Chief Minister inaugurated the AI-based ‘Traffic Regulation and Citation System’ (TRACS). Within just one week, the traffic police issued nearly 30,000 e-tickets to registered vehicle owners for violations such as not wearing a seat belt, tinted windows, and riding motorcycles without helmets. The total fine amount reached several crores of rupees.
Citizens and various political groups criticized the heavy penalties, claiming they were being used as a revenue-generating tool.
So far, at least three petitions have been filed in the Sindh High Court, two of which have resulted in notices being issued to the government and the police.
Despite criticism, some observers acknowledged that e-ticketing has brought improvements: vehicles now stop within marked lanes at traffic signals, and helmet use among motorcyclists has increased.
Sources revealed that several Karachi-based politicians from the ruling party, along with senior police officials, have informed the government that although the initiative is beneficial, fines for certain violations are excessively high, causing the issue to become politically contentious.
They suggested that the provincial government could reduce fine amounts—or temporarily set them at a more reasonable level—to ease public concerns.
Sources further stated that there is a growing realization within the government and police that fines alone cannot reform traffic culture; cooperation with municipal bodies and the Excise and Taxation Department is essential.
When Sindh IGP Ghulam Nabi Memon was asked whether the success of TRACS depends on institutional coordination, he said, “Absolutely. Long-term success depends on close cooperation between the traffic police, local administration, the excise department, TMC, KMC, and other civic agencies.”
He explained that “the fine structure was not designed based on citizens’ income but to prevent violations and improve road safety. These fines are not an unavoidable burden—responsible driving can easily prevent them. The real objective is discipline, compliance with the law, and safer roads.”
A senior government official and PPP leader stated that the Chief Minister has already announced that first-time offenders may have their fines waived within ten days upon submitting a written apology. The government is also expected to announce a substantial reduction in certain fines by the end of the month.
He confirmed that the system will not be suspended or withdrawn; instead, it will be expanded throughout Karachi and later to other districts.
Difficulties for Vehicle Owners Who Have Sold Their Cars
If a registered owner has sold the vehicle but the buyer has not transferred ownership, e-tickets continue to be issued to the previous owner. This forces them to visit the police and police offices repeatedly to prove that the vehicle is no longer theirs.
Demerit points are also automatically applied to the registered owner’s license, regardless of who was driving. The owner must visit the traffic office with the actual driver to transfer the fine and points to the correct person.
The IGP clarified that legal responsibility remains with the registered owner until ownership transfer is formally completed.
He said TRACS depends on excise data, so fines will continue to be issued to the previous owner until the record is updated.
He added that such issues can be resolved at facilitation centers by providing proof of sale and an excise verification letter, after which the e-ticket is immediately canceled. Such vehicles will also be blacklisted and seized if detected by Safe City cameras.
For demerit points, the owner must visit the facilitation centre with the actual violator to transfer the points.
Vehicles Without Number Plates
While law-abiding citizens receive e-tickets even for minor offenses, vehicles with AFR or no number plates continue to move freely because TRACS cannot identify them.
According to the Sindh IGP, “TRACS identifies vehicles solely through license plates; therefore, vehicles without proper plates cannot receive automated e-tickets.”
He added that physical crackdowns against such vehicles are ongoing. Those without proper plates are seized and handed over to the excise department for legal proceedings.
