In a significant update for vehicle owners across Pakistan, the National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior has announced new fines for late vehicle registration. This decision comes after a thorough review of the existing penalties and aims to address the growing concerns regarding vehicle registration compliance.
Overview of the New Penalties
During a recent meeting, the committee discussed a notification issued by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Islamabad, which was originally released on August 2. This notification outlined fines for delayed vehicle registration, specifically targeting vehicles with engine capacities ranging from 1,000cc to 3,000cc. The DC reported that the government has successfully collected Rs260 million in fines due to late registrations, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement of registration laws.
Calls for Abolishing Late Fees
Despite the revenue generated from these fines, committee member Tariq Fazal Chaudhry voiced concerns and called for the abolition of late registration fees. His proposal reflects a growing sentiment among vehicle owners who feel burdened by the financial penalties associated with delayed registration.
Effective Measures and Future Proposals
The meeting also touched upon the effectiveness of increasing motorway fines to Rs2,500, which has reportedly led to a reduction in traffic violations. In light of this, committee member Zartaj Gul suggested consulting with experts to explore practical solutions for the challenges surrounding vehicle registration.
Authority and Collaboration
Committee Chairman Khurram Shehzad Nawaz raised questions about the committee’s ability to suspend the DC’s notification. However, a representative from the Ministry of Law clarified that the committee does not possess the authority to halt the notification. Instead, the committee directed the DC of Islamabad to collaborate with the Car Association to find a resolution to the ongoing registration issues.
Online Vehicle Registration: A Step Towards Convenience
In a related development, the Sindh government has announced that vehicle registration and transfer facilities will be available online starting January 1, 2025. This initiative, led by the Excise and Taxation Department and chaired by Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, aims to enhance public convenience by allowing citizens to register and transfer vehicles from the comfort of their homes.
The online system will also enable vehicle owners to pay motor vehicle taxes digitally, eliminating the need for cash transactions. This move is expected to promote greater transparency in the tax payment system and streamline the registration process.
Conclusion
The announcement of new fines for late vehicle registration underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing compliance among vehicle owners. While the revenue generated from these fines is significant, the call for abolishing late fees reflects the concerns of many citizens. As the Sindh government prepares to roll out online registration services in early 2025, vehicle owners can look forward to a more convenient and efficient process.
Stay informed about these developments to ensure compliance and take advantage of the upcoming online services that promise to simplify vehicle registration and transfer in Pakistan.