Karachi Transport Ittehad Holds Key Meeting; Transporters Raise Concerns Over Excise Policies and E-Challan System

KARACHI: An important meeting of the Karachi Transport Ittehad was held under the chairmanship of its president Haji Toab Khan, bringing together a large number of public transport operators from across the city.

The meeting focused on a wide range of issues faced by transporters, with participants expressing serious concerns over recent policies and administrative measures affecting the transport sector.

Transporters strongly protested against what they described as unfair treatment by the Excise Department. They objected to a newly imposed condition requiring vehicle owners to present a third-party insurance policy before paying vehicle taxes. According to participants, this requirement is resulting in an additional financial burden of approximately Rs. 12,000 per vehicle.

They also raised concerns over a lack of clarity regarding the terms, benefits, and insurance companies involved in the third-party insurance policy, stating that the transport community has not been properly informed.

Participants emphasized that while they are willing to pay all government taxes as responsible citizens, they reject conditions imposed without consultation and clear explanation.

The meeting also discussed the issue of the double biometric and double meter system. Transporters stated that although the government had reportedly granted an extension until June 30, 2026, the Excise Department is allegedly not recognizing this deadline and is continuing to demand additional payments.

Strong criticism was also directed at the e-challan and camera-based traffic enforcement system. Transporters termed it a failed initiative, claiming that while the system frequently detects minor movements of buses and coaches, it fails to address the widespread operation of illegal six-seater, nine-seater, and three-seater rickshaws across the city.

They further alleged that these illegal vehicles are severely disrupting Karachi’s traffic flow, with major intersections once again turning into informal rickshaw stands, in violation of official directives.

Participants demanded immediate abolition of what they called excessive e-challans and overly complex regulations, calling for a more transparent and simplified system.

The meeting also expressed disappointment over the non-implementation of promised fuel subsidies on petrol and diesel by the federal government.

At the conclusion of the meeting, transporters unanimously warned that if their concerns are not addressed promptly, they may be forced to suspend operations and stage protests outside the offices of the Excise Department.