The Karnataka government has announced a significant relief for motorists in Bengaluru and across the state, offering a one-time 50% waiver on all pending traffic fines issued through the Police Department's e-challan system. This initiative will be in effect from August 23 to September 12, 2025. The move aims to reduce the substantial backlog of unpaid fines and encourage responsible driving habits among citizens.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has urged the public to take advantage of this opportunity to clear their dues and ensure compliance with traffic regulations. The e-challan system, a digital project replacing the old paper-based system, has been implemented to bring more transparency and efficiency to traffic fine management. It allows traffic police to issue electronic challans for traffic violations seamlessly.
This isn't the first time the Karnataka government has offered such a concession. In February 2023, a similar 50% discount on traffic fines was introduced, leading to the resolution of approximately 40% of traffic cases. During that period, over 5.2 million traffic challan cases were settled, and more than ₹152 crore in fines was collected. Justice B Veerappa, Executive Chairman of the Karnataka State Legal Services Authority (KSLSA), noted that the initiative created greater traffic awareness and encouraged the public to follow traffic rules.
The e-challan system in Karnataka utilizes technology to issue electronic challans for traffic violations, making the process stress-free, easy, and transparent. The goal is to enhance road safety and traffic management through strict enforcement and the adoption of modern advancements.
For those who wish to check their e-challan status and pay the discounted fines, several online and offline methods are available. Online, one can visit the Parivahan website or the Karnataka Police website. On the Parivahan website, navigate to "Online Services," then "eChallan," and finally, "Pay Online". Alternatively, the Karnataka Police website offers a direct option to "Pay Traffic Violation Fine" under its "Online Services" section. To check the status, you will need either the challan number, vehicle number, or driving license number.
Offline payments can be made at traffic police stations by submitting the required documents, including a driving license, address proof, identity proof, and the traffic violation notice. Cash, as well as other modes of payment, are usually accepted.
It's important to carry all necessary documents while driving to avoid e-challans, including a driver's license, vehicle insurance, registration certificate (RC), and Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. If you believe you have received an incorrect e-challan, you can file a complaint through the Bengaluru Traffic Police portal or the Parivahan portal, providing all necessary details and evidence.
