What is e-challan?
An e-challan in Kerala is a digitally generated fine slip issued by traffic authorities for violations of traffic rules. This system replaces traditional paper-based challans and aims to streamline traffic law enforcement. With e-challans, traffic violations are recorded instantly, and fines can be conveniently paid online.
The e-challan system in Kerala is integrated with platforms like the Parivahan portal and the Kerala Police website, allowing violators to check their e-challan status, view past violations, and make secure payments. This digital approach enhances transparency, increases accountability, and facilitates faster resolution of fines, reducing the need for manual processes.
How Does the System of e-challan Work?
The e-challan system in Kerala is a digital method designed to streamline the process of managing traffic violations. Here’s how it operates:
- Detection of Violation: Traffic violations are identified manually by officers equipped with handheld devices or automatically via CCTV cameras positioned at key traffic points. These devices capture essential details, such as the vehicle’s registration number, type of violation, location, and time of the incident.
- Issuance of e-challan: Once a violation is recorded, an e-challan is generated electronically. Officers input details into their devices for manually detected violations, and the e-challan is instantly issued. For violations detected through CCTV, the system automatically processes the footage, verifies the violation, and links the e-challan to the vehicle’s registration number and the registered mobile number of the violator.
- Notification to the Violator: After the e-challan is issued, a notification is sent to the registered mobile number of the violator via SMS. This message includes details of the violation, the fine amount, and payment instructions, ensuring the violator is aware and can act promptly.
- Tracking and Payment: Violators can track their e-challan status through platforms like the Kerala Police website or the Parivahan portal. By entering their vehicle or challan number, they can view outstanding fines and make payments through various options, including net banking, debit/credit cards, or UPI.
- Payment Confirmation: A digital receipt is generated upon successful payment, and a confirmation message is sent to the violator’s mobile number. The e-challan system updates in real time, marking the violation as resolved. This digital receipt is a proof of payment, which can be saved or printed for future reference.
Advantages of Paying e-challan in Kerala
Paying e-challans in Kerala offers a range of benefits, including convenience, enhanced transparency, and improved efficiency. This digital solution simplifies handling traffic fines and supports responsible driving behaviour among residents.
- Time-Saving and Convenience: The e-challan system allows residents to pay traffic fines from anywhere, using platforms like the Kerala Police website, the Parivahan portal, or mobile apps. This eliminates the need to visit a police station, saving time and effort for violators.
- 24/7 Accessibility: The system operates online, enabling violators to pay fines day or night. This flexibility means payments can be made without needing to follow office hours, allowing users to settle fines when it’s most convenient.
- Enhanced Transparency: The e-challan provides detailed information about each traffic violation, including the date, time, and location of the offence. This transparency ensures violators understand the infraction, fostering fairness and reducing disputes.
- Multiple Payment Options: The e-challan system supports a variety of payment methods, including debit/credit cards, net banking, and UPI. This makes the payment process easy and accessible, allowing users to avoid cash transactions and complete payments securely online.
- Environmentally Friendly: The shift to e-challans reduces the need for paper, supporting Kerala’s efforts towards eco-friendly practices. This paperless approach aligns with the state’s vision for sustainability and digital modernisation.
How to Check e-challan Status in Kerala
Checking your e-challan status in Kerala is now convenient and accessible through multiple digital platforms. Here’s a quick guide on using the Kerala Police website, the Parivahan app, and the ACKO app to verify and manage your e-challan details, ensuring timely payments and avoiding additional penalties. Here are the main methods to check your e-challan status in Kerala:
1. Kerala Police Website
- Visit the Kerala Police Traffic e-challan page on the Kerala Police website.
- Navigate to the E-Challan or Check Challan Status section.
- Enter your vehicle registration number, challan number, or driving licence number to view any pending e-challans.
- The site will display any outstanding fines along with details like the violation, location, and penalty amount, with options for online payment if needed.
2. Parivahan App
- Open the Parivahan App on your smartphone.
- Go to the E-Challan section in the app.
- Enter details such as your vehicle number or challan number to check for e-challans.
- The app will show a list of any outstanding fines, along with the option to pay securely through the app.
3. ACKO App
- Launch the ACKO App on your mobile device.
- Navigate to the Traffic Challan section in the app’s menu.
- Input your vehicle registration number or driving licence details to check your e-challan status.
- The app will display any pending e-challans, including violation details, with a simple option to pay directly through the app.
How to Pay e-challan in Kerala
With various digital options, paying an e-challan in Kerala is simple and efficient. You can use the Kerala Police website, the Parivahan app, and the ACKO app to settle your traffic fines quickly and securely. Be aware of e-challan scams, where fraudsters may send fake messages or emails demanding payment. Always ensure the communication is genuine before making any payment. Below is a detailed guide on how to use each platform for e-challan payments.
1. Kerala Police Website
- Visit the Kerala Police Traffic E-Challan page on the official Kerala Police website.
- Go to the Pay E-Challan section.
- Enter your vehicle registration number, challan number, or driving license number to retrieve your e-challan details.
- Verify the information, then click Pay Now to proceed.
- Choose from payment options like debit/credit cards, net banking, or UPI.
- Once paid, a digital receipt will be generated, which can be saved or printed for your records.
2. Parivahan App
- Open the Parivahan App on your smartphone.
- Navigate to the E-Challan section in the app.
- Enter details such as your vehicle number or challan number to check and pay your e-challan.
- Review the details and proceed with Pay Now to complete the transaction.
- The app provides various payment methods, and you’ll receive a confirmation receipt upon successful payment.
3. ACKO App
- Launch the ACKO App on your mobile device.
- Head to the Traffic Challan section in the app menu.
- Input your vehicle registration number or driving licence details to view any pending e-challans.
- Confirm the challan details, then tap Pay Now to pay directly within the app.
- After payment, a digital receipt is generated for your records, providing a quick and convenient option.
Traffic Fines in Kerala ( for two-wheelers & four-wheelers)
This table outlines key traffic violations and their associated fines under the Motor Vehicles Act in Kerala. These penalties aim to improve road safety, ensure compliance with traffic laws, and encourage responsible driving across the state.
Description | Amount (Rs) |
Sec.177 General provisions for punishment of offences for which penalty is not provided (i) For the first offence (ii) For any second or subsequent offence | ₹250 ₹500 |
| Sec.178(1) Penalty for travelling without a pass or ticket and for dereliction of duty by the conductor | ₹500 |
| Sec.178(2) Conductor or driver fails to accept fare, refuses to supply a ticket, or supplies an invalid ticket | ₹500 |
| Sec.178(3)(a) Holder of permit or driver of two/three-wheeler refuses to ply or carry passengers | ₹50 |
| Sec.178(3)(b) Holder of permit or driver refuses to ply or carry passengers in other cases | ₹500 |
| Sec.179(1) Disobedience of orders and obstructing discharge of functions under the Act | ₹1,000 |
| Sec.179(2) Wilfully withholding or giving false information required under the Act | ₹1,000 |
| Sec.180 Allowing unauthorised persons to drive vehicles | ₹5,000 |
| Sec.181 Driving vehicles in contravention of section 3 or section 4 | ₹5,000 |
| Sec.182(1) Driving with disqualification or applying/obtaining a driving licence when disqualified | ₹10,000 |
This table outlines specific violations under the Indian Motor Vehicle (IMV) Act and the associated fine amounts in Kerala. Traffic violations are taken seriously in the state, with penalties designed to improve road safety and promote responsible driving.
Conclusion
The e-challan system in Kerala is a crucial step toward modernising traffic enforcement, enhancing transparency, and simplifying the fine payment process. By digitising traffic violation management, the system reduces paperwork, ensures timely notifications for violators, and promotes responsible driving behaviour. This convenient, online platform allows residents to settle fines quickly, avoiding further penalties and legal complications. Overall, Kerala’s e-challan system contributes to safer roads, streamlined traffic management, and a more efficient relationship between citizens and traffic authorities, benefiting both the public and the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
