Recently, the Delhi government may soon come to the rescue of lakhs of motorists burdened with years of unpaid traffic fines, as it considers introducing a one-time amnesty scheme to waive or substantially reduce pending challans across the capital.
According to sources, the proposed amnesty scheme seeks to clear a massive backlog of traffic challans issued by the Delhi Police and the Transport Department’s Enforcement Wing over the past decade. Reports suggest that nearly 50 million challans have been issued during this period, with close to 97% remaining unrealised due to procedural delays, non-service of notices, and pending court cases.
The scheme, if approved, is likely to remain open for a limited period of 45 to 60 days, during which vehicle owners may be allowed to settle outstanding fines through online platforms or the government’s transport portal.
Sources familiar with the matter claim that the proposal file has been forwarded to Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena for approval and may soon be placed before the Delhi Cabinet. The Transport Department has reportedly proposed graded waivers up to 60% for private and commercial vehicles, 70% for Delhi Transport Corporation buses, and up to 80% for two-wheelers and three-wheelers.
Officials contend that strict recovery mechanisms have failed to yield results, with a large portion of challans remaining unpaid despite repeated enforcement efforts.
The government has observed that the number of traffic violations in Delhi has steadily increased, with lakhs of challans issued annually for offences such as overspeeding, jumping red lights, not wearing helmets or seat belts, and improper parking. Over time, accumulated penalties often become financially unmanageable for vehicle owners, discouraging voluntary compliance.
Authorities believe that an amnesty scheme would help rebuild public trust, encourage lawful behaviour, reduce litigation, and unlock long-pending non-tax revenue.
No official notification has been issued so far. The proposal is awaiting approval from the Lieutenant Governor and subsequent clearance by the Delhi Cabinet. A final decision is expected in the coming days. If implemented, the scheme could bring significant relief to millions of motorists in the national capital.
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