Received a Wrong E-Challan? Here’s How to Cancel It Online
Received a Wrong E-Challan has made traffic fine management more transparent and efficient. With the installation of smart traffic cameras in major cities like Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi, thousands of traffic violations are recorded daily. While this system has reduced manual corruption and improved road discipline, many vehicle owners sometimes receive a wrong e-challan due to technical errors, number plate misreading, or system glitches.
If you have received a wrong e-challan and are wondering how to cancel it online, this detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from checking the challan status to filing an online complaint and getting it removed.
What is an E-Challan?
An E-Challan (Electronic Challan) is a digital traffic fine issued by traffic police through automated surveillance cameras. Instead of being stopped on the road, your vehicle number plate is captured by cameras, and the fine is generated automatically in the system.
You usually receive:
- SMS notification
- Postal notice at your home
- Online record on traffic police website
The system is designed to ensure fairness, but errors can still occur.
Common Reasons for Receiving a Wrong E-Challan
Before filing a complaint, it’s important to understand why wrong e-challans happen. Here are the most common reasons:
1. Number Plate Misreading
Sometimes cameras misread similar characters such as:
- B & 8
- O & 0
- 5 & S
This can result in someone else’s violation being linked to your vehicle.
2. Duplicate or Fake Number Plates
If someone is using a duplicate or fake number plate matching yours, the system may mistakenly fine you.
3. Sold Vehicle Not Transferred
If you sold your car but the ownership was not transferred officially, the challan will still be issued in your name.
4. System Error or Technical Glitch
Occasionally, system processing errors can generate incorrect fines.
5. Incorrect Violation Tagging
Sometimes the camera may wrongly classify a traffic violation.
How to Check E-Challan Online in Pakistan
Before canceling, first verify whether the challan is actually wrong.
Step 1: Visit Your City’s Traffic Police Website
Each province has its own e-challan portal.
Step 2: Enter Required Details
You will need:
- Vehicle registration number
- CNIC number (in some cases)
Step 3: Review Violation Details
Check:
- Date and time
- Location
- Violation type
- Vehicle image
If the vehicle image does not match your car, you likely received a wrong e-challan.
Documents Required to Cancel a Wrong E-Challan
To file a cancellation request, keep these documents ready:
- Copy of CNIC
- Vehicle Registration Book/Smart Card
- Screenshot or print of challan
- Proof (if available, such as location proof or transfer receipt)
Having proper documentation speeds up the cancellation process.
How to Cancel a Wrong E-Challan Online – Step-by-Step Process
Here is the complete procedure to cancel an incorrect e-challan online:
Step 1: Go to Official E-Challan Complaint Portal
Open your provincial traffic police website and locate the “Complaint” or “Dispute Challan” section.
Step 2: Enter Challan Details
Provide:
- Challan number
- Vehicle number
- CNIC
Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
Attach:
- CNIC copy
- Registration proof
- Any supporting evidence
Step 4: Write a Clear Complaint
Explain:
- Why the challan is incorrect
- Mention if the vehicle in image is not yours
- Mention sale/transfer details if applicable
Step 5: Submit Application
After submission, you will receive:
- Complaint tracking number
- SMS confirmation
Step 6: Wait for Verification
Traffic authorities will review camera footage and documents.
If your complaint is valid, the challan will be removed from the system.
How Long Does E-Challan Cancellation Take?
Processing time usually depends on the city:
- 3 to 7 working days in major cities
- Up to 14 days in smaller cities
You can track your complaint status online using the complaint ID.
What If Online Cancellation Is Not Available?
In some cases, online cancellation may not work. You can:
- Visit Traffic Police Office in your city
- Submit written application
- Show original documents
- Request review of camera footage
Most offices have dedicated help desks for e-challan complaints.
What Happens If You Ignore a Wrong E-Challan?
Ignoring a wrong challan is not recommended because:
- It may accumulate late payment penalties
- You may face issues during vehicle transfer
- Vehicle token tax renewal can be blocked
- You may be stopped at road checkpoints
Always dispute the challan instead of ignoring it.
Tips to Avoid Future Wrong E-Challans
Here are some preventive measures:
- Use official government-issued number plates
- Avoid damaged or unclear plates
- Immediately transfer vehicle ownership after sale
- Keep vehicle documents updated
- Regularly check e-challan status online
Is E-Challan System Reliable?
Despite occasional errors, the e-challan system has improved traffic law enforcement significantly. It:
- Reduces roadside bribery
- Ensures digital record transparency
- Promotes safer driving
However, public awareness about dispute procedures is still increasing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I cancel an e-challan online in Pakistan?
Yes, most provinces offer an online complaint system to dispute incorrect challans.
2. Is there any fee for canceling a wrong e-challan?
No, filing a complaint for a wrong challan is usually free.
3. How do I prove the challan is wrong?
Check the vehicle image. If the vehicle is different or you sold the vehicle, submit proof documents.
4. What if someone is using a fake number plate with my registration?
Report immediately to traffic police and file a complaint for duplicate/fake plate.
5. Can I call traffic police to cancel a challan?
Some cities offer helpline numbers, but official cancellation usually requires written or online complaint.
Final Words
Receiving a wrong e-challan can be stressful, but the good news is that you can cancel it easily through the proper online procedure. The key is to act quickly, gather proper documents, and submit a clear complaint. Never ignore an incorrect challan, as it may cause legal or financial complications later.
The digital traffic monitoring system is here to stay, and while mistakes can happen, authorities provide structured complaint channels to resolve them fairly. Stay informed, stay alert, and regularly check your vehicle’s e-challan status to avoid unnecessary penalties.
