Over 600 e-challans issued as Rawalpindi launches new traffic system

RAWALPINDI: More than 600 electronic traffic tickets were issued within the first four days of Rawalpindi’s new new traffic system, officials from the Safe City Project confirmed on Wednesday.

Speaking at the Safe City headquarters, SSP Safe City Rawalpindi Rana Abdul Wahab said the system has now been fully linked with traffic management and the security control room, allowing real-time monitoring and automatic issuance of e-challans without human interference.

He said over 2,100 smart cameras have been installed at more than 300 key locations across the city. These cameras can detect 19 different types of traffic violations, including helmet-less riding, seat-belt violations and mobile phone use while driving.

The focus in the initial phase is on violations directly linked to fatal accidents. In addition, 41 air quality monitoring devices have also been added to help keep track of smog levels in collaboration with environmental departments.

Authorities said the digital traffic system will be expanded to all tehsils of Rawalpindi district by December 31.

Citizens can challenge wrongly issued tickets in court, where a magistrate will review the case. Officials also announced plans to install emergency panic buttons across the city and use smart surveillance for traffic diversions during major construction works, including at Kacheri Chowk.

Older pending challans from previous months are also being processed through the new system.