The city is grappling with an alarming surge in unpaid traffic challans, which have now reached a staggering 19.5 lakh. Among the violators, 2,483 vehicles have accumulated more than 50 challans each, highlighting a significant enforcement challenge for traffic authorities.
Breaking down the numbers, 1,900 vehicles fall within the range of 50 to 99 unpaid challans, while 389 have between 100 and 149 violations. Another 141 vehicles have amassed 150 to 199 pending fines, and 53 vehicles have exceeded 200 unpaid challans each, underscoring the severity of habitual traffic violations.
To curb this growing issue, the UT Administration had previously announced that vehicle owners with five or more pending challans would be served notices, instructing them to clear their dues within 15 days.
However, despite repeated warnings, many continue to disregard these penalties, accumulating fines for offences such as speeding, reckless driving, and ignoring traffic signals.
Social activist R.K. Garg has emphasised the need for a concrete strategy to ensure timely payment of fines. He pointed out that despite rising numbers of unpaid challans, many habitual offenders continue to flout traffic rules without consequence.
He urged the administration and police to adopt technology-driven solutions to efficiently address the backlog and enforce compliance.
Also Read: 405 cameras watching traffic violators as e-challans begin
Traffic violations in the city are monitored through the Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS), based in Sector 17. This system is linked to approximately 2,000 CCTV cameras installed at key junctions across the city, helping authorities track and identify offenders.
In a recent case, a repeat traffic offender was found guilty of committing 269 violations, including reckless driving, running red lights, crossing road markings, and riding a two-wheeler without a helmet. A local court sentenced the violator to 15 days of community service and imposed a fine of ₹53,800.
Similarly, another habitual offender with 222 challans was fined ₹43,400 and ordered to perform two-hour community service at traffic signals for 15 days. His violations included jumping red lights (44 times), speeding (168 times), and crossing road markings (eight times).
The rising number of repeat offenders and unpaid challans underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement measures and better compliance mechanisms to ensure road safety and rule adherence in the city.
Also Read: 1,673 e-challans issued in Mohali on day 2 of drive
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