Motorists across Karnataka have been given a fresh opportunity to settle long-pending traffic violations, with the state government announcing a 50 per cent waiver on traffic e-challan fines from June 21 to July 10.
The move comes as outstanding traffic fines across the state have crossed Rs 2,827 crore, prompting authorities to introduce a special settlement drive to encourage offenders to clear their dues.
Relief for motorists with pending fines
According to an order issued by the Karnataka government on June 4, vehicle owners can settle their pending traffic violations by paying only half of the prescribed fine amount during the waiver period.
The concession also applies to cases booked by the Transport Department between 1991 and 2022 that remain unpaid, offering relief to thousands of motorists with long-standing penalties.
Bengaluru police plan special recovery drive
To ensure greater participation, Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) plans to launch awareness campaigns through social media and other public outreach platforms. Special payment counters will also be set up at key locations across the city, particularly in areas with heavy vehicle movement.
Officials said these counters are intended to make the payment process easier and more accessible for the public.
Habitual offenders under watch
Traffic police have also indicated that enforcement efforts will be strengthened during the rebate period. Spot checks will be intensified, and officers may ask motorists with pending violations to clear their dues immediately.
Authorities are also using data analytics to identify habitual traffic offenders. Those with multiple unpaid challans will be contacted and encouraged to take advantage of the waiver scheme. Legal notices may be issued to individuals who continue to ignore pending dues.
Chance to avoid future legal action
Officials believe the scheme provides a practical opportunity for motorists to clear old violations at a reduced cost while helping authorities recover a significant portion of the pending revenue. Vehicle owners have been urged to verify their challan status and utilise the waiver period before the concession ends.