Maharashtra Govt To Form Committee To Review E-Challan System Amid Transport Operators’ Concerns
Maharashtra Govt To Form Committee To Review E-Challan System Amid Transport Operators’ Concerns
Renuka Suryavanshi
PUNE: In response to mounting grievances from transport operators regarding the e-challan system, Maharashtra transport minister Pratap Sarnaik has directed officials to form a dedicated committee to assess and reform the process. The committee will comprise transport department officials, police, domain experts, and representatives from transport associations, with a report expected within a month.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting held at Mantralaya on Thursday, which was attended by industries minister Uday Samant, additional chief secretary (transport) Sanjay Sethi, transport commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar, senior officials, and transport union leaders.
Sarnaik emphasized that the e-challan framework must shift from a punitive model to one that promotes compliance and fairness. “Multiple challans should not be issued for the same violation on a single day. Each challan should have a clear validity period. Adequate parking facilities must also be ensured for commercial vehicles, particularly in cities like Mumbai,” he said.
He further instructed that all challans should be backed by live photographic evidence to prevent arbitrary fines and that enforcement parameters must be aligned with transport department guidelines. The committee will also review existing speed limits, parking policies, and enforcement procedures to recommend actionable reforms.
Industries minister Uday Samant echoed these concerns, stating, “There is a pressing need to revise the rigid clauses in the current system. The menace of the parking mafia and the misuse of outdated photos by traffic police for fines must be addressed urgently.”
Samant also proposed that transport sector businesses be included under the Chief Minister’s Employment Scheme to provide financial and operational support to industry stakeholders.
While the move has been welcomed, transport unions remain cautious. Baba Shinde, president of the Maharashtra Drivers-Owners and Representatives Federation, said, “The meeting was positive, but the committee will submit its report in a month. Our issues are daily, and if the promises made are not fulfilled, we will go ahead with our planned strike from July 2.”
The government’s inclusive and reform-oriented approach is seen as a crucial step toward restoring trust between authorities and the transport community, ensuring smoother enforcement and greater transparency in traffic regulations.
