Sindh Number Plate Drive Sparks Anger Amid Fines
The public outcry over the number plate drive has highlighted the need for more efficient and citizen-friendly processes, and the government's response will be crucial in addressing the concerns of the people and restoring trust in the system. The fate of millions of vehicle owners in Sindh hangs in the balance, as they await a resolution to the number plate debacle.
Thousands of vehicles have been impounded and heavy fines issued in Sindh due to a backlog in issuing new number plates, sparking public anger and criticism from citizens and political leaders alike. The Excise Department's struggle to keep up with demand has resulted in delays and widespread challans, with the traffic police issuing millions of rupees in fines and seizing over 12,000 vehicles and bikes.
The Sindh Excise and Taxation Department has extended the deadline for biometric vehicle registration to August 14, 2025, warning that no further extensions will be granted after this date. Both buyers and sellers will be required to undergo biometric verification for vehicle transfers, and a fee of Rs2,450 is charged for each number plate. Despite setting up counters in Karachi and allowing online applications, citizens have reported delays in receiving their number plates, with over 5 million motorcycles in Sindh awaiting new number plates.
The situation has led to calls for the Excise Department to set up city-wide camps and for the traffic police to rein in their alleged excesses. Authorities are also cracking down on agent mafias and urging citizens to use official channels to obtain their number plates. The newly issued number plates feature enhanced security features, but the process has been marred by controversy and public dissatisfaction.
As the deadline for biometric vehicle registration approaches, the Sindh government faces mounting pressure to address the concerns of citizens and streamline the process for issuing new number plates. With millions of vehicles still awaiting registration, the government must find a solution to the backlog and ensure that citizens are not unfairly penalized for delays beyond their control.