Many former vehicle owners in Karachi have recently reported receiving e-challans for vehicles they no longer own. These digital traffic fines, issued by the Karachi Traffic Police (KTP) and Sindh Police, are often generated when traffic cameras record a violation by a vehicle whose ownership transfer has not yet been updated in the official records.
Why It Happens
The main reason for such incidents is a delay in the transfer of ownership. When a vehicle is sold, but the new owner fails to update the registration with the Excise and Taxation Department, the old owner remains listed in the system. As a result, any violation committed by the new owner is linked to the previous owner’s name, leading to an e-challan being issued to them.
Traffic authorities have advised sellers to ensure the name transfer process is completed immediately after the sale to avoid this issue.
What to Do If You Receive an E-Challan for a Sold Vehicle
1. Gather Proof of Sale
Collect all relevant documents, including the sale agreement, payment receipt, transfer application, and acknowledgment from the Excise Department. These will serve as evidence that the vehicle was sold before the date of violation.
2. Visit the Nearest Traffic Police Office
Take your CNIC, e-challan notice, and sale documents to a nearby traffic police office or designated KTP branch. Explain that you sold the vehicle before the violation occurred and request verification.
3. Request Verification of the Violation
Ask the authorities to review the violation footage and check the vehicle’s registration status. If the evidence confirms that the car was sold before the violation, the challan can be canceled or reassigned to the new owner.
4. Update Records with the Excise and Taxation Department
If the system still shows your name as the registered owner, visit the Excise and Taxation Department to update ownership records. This step ensures that future violations are correctly directed to the new owner.
5. Keep All Documentation Safe
Maintain copies of sale receipts, transfer papers, and any communication with the Excise or traffic departments. These documents are essential if you need to challenge future errors.
6. Check E-Challan and Vehicle Status Regularly
It’s advisable to monitor your vehicle status online to verify that no new e-challans are issued under your name after the sale.
Important Tips
- Act quickly to avoid accumulating additional fines or legal issues.
- Communicate with the buyer to confirm that ownership transfer procedures are complete.
- Always verify the buyer’s details and submit all required forms during the sale.
- Be cautious about possible cloned number plates; if you suspect misuse, report it to the authorities immediately.
- Keep digital records of the transaction for your safety.
By following these steps, vehicle sellers in Karachi can protect themselves from wrongful penalties and ensure that traffic violations are attributed to the correct owner. The process may take some time, but prompt action and proper documentation can prevent future complications.
