Strict penalties announced for number plate tampering

KARACHI: DIG Traffic Peer Muhammad Shah has issued a strict warning against tampering with the number plates or trying to dodge the city’s AI-powered e-challan system.

He said the traffic police would take firm action against violators as the department moves to tighten enforcement across Karachi.

Tampering, scratching or altering the number plates is a criminal offence and arrest will follow, he said in a statement recently. Vehicles running on fake plates or plates not properly transferred will be blacklisted in police and excise records, and cases shall be forwarded to the concerned authorities for legal action, he said.

DIG Shah also defended the city’s digital enforcement system, which has triggered strong public reactions due to higher fines. He maintained that the purpose of strict penalties is to transform driving behavior, not match affordability.

According to him, Karachi earlier recorded three traffic deaths a day, but the figure has come down to two a day after smart enforcement began.

He said the department’s goal is to further reduce fatalities and improve road safety. He also mentioned that 11 Sahulat Centers across the city now offer first time offenders a one time waiver, ensuring the system remains strict but fair.

DIG Shah further stated that currently, only a part of Karachi is covered with smart cameras, and yet, a change in the driving habits of citizens is visible.