Delhi Introduces Digital System For Traffic Challan Settlement: No More Avoiding Fines, Strict Penalties For Violators

Delhi: In a bid to tighten road discipline and enhance public safety, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday introduced a new, structured and time-bound system for the settlement of traffic challans.

This initiative aims to reduce traffic violations and improve road safety, and bring greater transparency through a fully digital process.

Avoiding Challans Will No Longer Be Possible

- Under the new framework, avoiding challans will no longer be possible, as timely resolution has been made mandatory for all citizens.

- Additionally, violators will not be able to approach the courts directly to challenge a fine. Instead, they must first go through the prescribed process, news agency ANI reported.

Strict Action Against Repeated Violations

The chief minister further said that the Delhi government will soon implement amendments made by the Centre to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. This aims to make the challan process more stringent, transparent, and technology-driven.

- Under the amended rules, if a person commits five or more traffic violations within a single year, he/she will be classified as a 'serious offender'.

- Such cases may lead to the suspension or disqualification of their driver’s license.

Modernisation Of Traffic Challan System

Gupta said that the issuance of challans will be fully modernised.

- Police or authorised officers can issue fines physically or electronically, while digital surveillance cameras will automatically generate challans.

- If the department has a violator's mobile number, an e-challan will be sent within three days, while a physical notice will be delivered within 15 days.

- To ensure transparency, all challans will be recorded sequentially on an online portal.

- Authorities have advised motorists to keep their mobile numbers and addresses updated on their driver's licenses and vehicle registration certificates to receive timely updates.

Timeline For Delivery And Resolution

- Under the new framework, an e-challan will be sent within three days, while a physical notice will be delivered within 15 days.

- Once a challan is issued, violators have 45 days to either pay the fine or challenge it through the online portal, supported by documentary evidence.

- If no action is taken within this period, the challan will be deemed accepted, and payment must be made within the next 30 days, the report added.

- If a challan is rejected, the fine must be paid within 30 days. Alternatively, the individual can approach the court after depositing 50 per cent of the challan amount.

Consequences Of Non-Compliance

- Once the deadline lapses, the system will issue daily electronic notices to the offender.

- Continued non-payment will result in the vehicle being flagged as "not to be transacted" on the portal, effectively blocking all-vehicle-related services, including tax payments, license renewals, and registration transfers.

- In cases where necessary, and subject to court orders, police or authorised officers have the power to impound vehicles for violations.