Islamabad’s Auto Number Plate Readers: A New Era of Traffic Law Enforcement

IslamabadضIslamabad’s residents have expressed concern over receiving messages about e-challans, but many remain unaware that the city administration has installed Auto Number Plate Reader (ANPR) cameras at various locations to monitor traffic violations. This advanced system is part of the government’s efforts to enforce traffic laws more effectively.

### **What is an E-Challan?**

An e-challan is an electronic ticket issued to drivers who violate traffic rules. The system uses ANPR cameras to automatically capture the license plate numbers of vehicles committing traffic violations. These cameras are strategically placed across the city to detect offenses such as speeding, jumping traffic signals, illegal parking, and other traffic violations. Once a violation is detected, the vehicle’s information is immediately transferred to the system, and a message is sent to the vehicle owner, notifying them of the fine.

**Alina Sajjad**, the spokesperson for the Islamabad Traffic Police, explained to *V News* that the system is designed to make traffic law enforcement more efficient and transparent. She said, “Whenever a vehicle violates any traffic rule, the ANPR cameras capture the vehicle’s plate, and the violation details are instantly transferred to the system.”

### **Consequences of Not Paying the E-Challan**

After receiving an e-challan message, if the driver does not pay the fine, several follow-up actions are taken. According to Alina Sajjad, if the fine is not paid despite receiving the message or an e-challan copy at home, multiple phone calls and messages are sent to remind the individual about the outstanding payment.

“If the fine remains unpaid, we inform field police officers, and they take the vehicle into legal custody to ensure that the fine is paid,” she said. In addition to this, the system has been linked with the Excise and Taxation Department’s database. If an individual tries to avail of any government services, their national identity card number is checked, and the system immediately flags any unpaid e-challans. As a result, the person will not be able to access government services until the fine is paid.

### **How the System Works**

The e-challan system operates through a sophisticated technological framework, which includes real-time data transfer between the ANPR cameras, the traffic police, and relevant government departments. The system not only sends the violation notice but also ensures that the violator’s records are updated across all relevant databases. This cross-departmental link helps streamline enforcement and encourages citizens to comply with traffic rules.

### **Impact on Traffic Violations and Safety**

Since the introduction of the e-challan system, there has been a noticeable reduction in traffic violations and fatal accidents. According to the Islamabad Traffic Police, as of December 10, 2024, a total of **276,279 e-challan tickets** had been issued for various traffic offenses. The system has been credited with improving road safety and encouraging more responsible driving in the capital.

The system is also closely tied to the **Safe City Project**, which aims to reduce traffic violations and enhance public safety. By leveraging advanced technologies such as surveillance cameras, speed sensors, and automatic number plate recognition, the project has played a significant role in promoting law enforcement in Islamabad.

### **A Step Toward Modernized Governance**

The introduction of the e-challan system is part of Islamabad’s broader effort to modernize its governance and improve public service delivery. By adopting innovative technology, the city aims to tackle traffic violations more efficiently and ensure a safer and more orderly traffic environment. With the continued support of citizens and cooperation from law enforcement agencies, the e-challan system is expected to contribute significantly to reducing road accidents and improving compliance with traffic regulations.

In conclusion, the e-challan system represents a step toward making traffic enforcement more transparent, efficient, and accessible to all. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed about their responsibilities and pay their fines promptly to avoid further legal consequences.