Punjab has witnessed a massive surge in e-challan issuance, with numbers quadrupling in just one year. The state’s “third eye” traffic monitoring system is now issuing fines every two minutes, significantly boosting enforcement and revenue.
In 2024, authorities issued 3.98 lakh e-challans, collecting fines worth ₹83 crore. This is a sharp rise from 72,191 challans in 2023 and 53,106 in 2022. Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari presented the report in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. Of the ₹83 crore in fines, ₹52.26 crore has been paid, while ₹30.94 crore remains pending.
Punjab’s major cities, including Mohali, Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Jalandhar, have implemented the system, with Mohali alone deploying 400 cameras. Despite strict monitoring, traffic violations continue, contributing to the increase in challans.
The transport department has blacklisted 6,800 vehicles that failed to pay fines, restricting RC transfers and renewals. Some vehicles have unpaid fines exceeding ₹1 lakh. Enforcement actions, including potential vehicle seizures, are planned to ensure compliance. Neighboring Haryana has also reported record e-challans, reflecting a broader trend in strict traffic monitoring in the region.
Punjab’s e-challan system aims to improve road safety while ensuring accountability among drivers.
