I have recently witnessed traffic police on major roads in Karachi issuing manual challans, as was common before October 2025, raising serious concerns about the effectiveness of recent reforms. The local authorities invested significantly in AI-powered cameras and digital infrastructure to ensure transparent and automated traffic enforcement, partly aiming to eliminate human interference and corruption. However, within months, we are witnessing a return of the same manual challan system. This shift not only raises questions about the utilisation of public funds but also undermines the very purpose of introducing technology-driven enforcement.
If the authorities choose to continue manual challans, they must ensure transparency, fairness and accountability. Otherwise, the government must fully implement and strengthen the digital system it has already invested in.
Amir Shahzad
Karachi
