The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has issued an important advisory for the public, especially those involved in buying and selling used vehicles. The authority has urged all citizens to verify outstanding e-challans before finalizing any used car transaction, highlighting that failure to do so may result in serious legal and financial repercussions for new owners.
PSCA Raises Alarm Over Unpaid Traffic Fines
Buying and selling second-hand vehicles is a widespread practice across Punjab and Pakistan, but the PSCA has expressed concern over the growing number of cases where new buyers unknowingly inherit unpaid traffic fines linked to the vehicle they purchase. These unpaid fines—recorded digitally as e-challans—do not disappear with a change in ownership. Instead, they are transferred along with the vehicle, making the new owner legally responsible.
According to officials, this can lead to several complications including delays in registering the vehicle, difficulties in future resale, and even potential legal action. The PSCA has stressed that verifying the e-challan status of a vehicle should become a mandatory step in all vehicle sale and purchase transactions.
Sellers Also Urged to Take Precautions
The advisory also addressed vehicle sellers, cautioning them to ensure the ownership is officially transferred immediately after the sale. Failing to do so means that any traffic violation committed by the new owner could still be traced back to the seller, leading to unnecessary trouble.
“Sellers must complete the transfer process through the proper legal channels without delay,” the PSCA advised. “Remaining listed as the registered owner puts you at risk for violations and penalties you did not commit.”
How to Verify and Pay E-Challans
To simplify the process, the PSCA has provided a convenient way for citizens to check any pending fines. By visiting the official PSCA e-challan portal and entering the vehicle’s license plate number, users can instantly view any outstanding fines associated with the car.
Additionally, the Punjab government recommends using the ePay Punjab mobile app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. The app enables users to pay their dues using a range of secure and user-friendly payment methods, such as:
- Mobile and internet banking
- ATMs
- Bank branches
- Mobile wallets and telecom agents
This ensures that citizens can verify and settle any outstanding fines before proceeding with the sale or purchase of a vehicle.
Smooth Transactions and Peace of Mind
The PSCA emphasizes that responsible buying and selling practices protect all parties involved and contribute to a more transparent and efficient vehicle registration system. E-challan verification, once overlooked, is now being recognized as a critical step that can prevent future headaches and legal disputes.
The advisory comes at a time when digital traffic enforcement systems are becoming more widespread, and authorities are placing increased focus on ensuring compliance through technology-driven solutions. By following these guidelines, both buyers and sellers can ensure smooth transactions, avoid penalties, and protect themselves from unnecessary complications.
The public is encouraged to stay informed and make e-challan verification a standard part of every used vehicle transaction.
