Karachi Traffic Police Outline Speed Limits to Avoid E-Challan Penalties

Karachi: Karachi Traffic Police have set official speed limits across all city roads, with automated e-challan systems now in place to penalize traffic violations. DIG Traffic Karachi, Pir Muhammad Shah, stated that motorcycles and light vehicles (LTVs) must adhere to a speed limit of 60 km/h, while heavy vehicles (HTVs) are restricted to 30 km/h.

To enforce the limits, speed-monitoring cameras are being installed along major roads. By 2026, an advanced traffic management system will be operational citywide, with installation of 11,000 additional cameras starting in January and completed in phases.

Currently, 40% of the city is monitored under the Traffic Regulation and Citation System (TRAXS), which is linked to 1,717 cameras. The system issues e-challans for overspeeding, driving in the wrong direction, not wearing helmets or seatbelts, signal violations, and other traffic offenses. TRAXS is fully functional in South District, including major roads like Shahrah-e-Faisal, and gradually expanding to other districts including Malir, Korangi, Eastern, Kemari, and Central.

DIG Traffic Shah emphasized that industrial zones such as SITE, Landhi, New Karachi, and Korangi will also be monitored in the coming months, with heavy vehicles tracked using GPS trackers for improved safety.

Since the implementation of e-challans, citizens have started complying with traffic rules, resulting in a gradual reduction in accidents. Shah urged motorcyclists to wear helmets and all vehicle owners to install proper side glasses, front and rear lights, and adhere strictly to speed limits, as compliance can save lives.

Authorities have also warned six-seater rickshaws to follow traffic laws, or face confiscation, and action will soon be taken against vehicles without license plates. From November 8, a month-long awareness campaign will educate the public on traffic laws and the TRAXS system.

Shah clarified that the e-challan system is impartial—no distinction is made between rich or poor—and anyone violating traffic rules will face penalties. Citizens who obey the rules can avoid e-challan fines.