The Maharashtra government is preparing to launch an amnesty scheme to address pending traffic challans. Under this scheme, vehicle owners will be able to settle their old traffic challans through a one-time settlement. The objective is to reduce the outstanding traffic fines in the state, which have exceeded ₹2,500 crore. In Mumbai alone, over ₹1,000 crore is outstanding.
The government is seriously considering this proposal, which is expected to generate additional revenue for the state. Official figures indicate that approximately ₹1,817 crore in e-challans were pending in Mumbai, of which only ₹817 crore has been recovered. There is still an outstanding amount of over ₹1,000 crore, which the government aims to recover through new methods. The official announcement regarding the implementation date is yet to be made, but it is expected to be implemented in the coming months after approval.
Under the scheme, owners of two-wheelers and three-wheelers may receive significant relief. They would need to pay only 25% of their outstanding challan amount, with the remaining 75% waived. Additionally, individuals who pay their challans within 15 days of receiving them might receive a 50% discount, encouraging timely payments.
Owners of expensive and luxury vehicles will not receive as much relief. The government might establish different discount categories based on vehicle type and price to ensure fair recovery and maximize revenue. Previously, the government attempted to recover outstanding dues through Lok Adalats, offering discounts of up to 50%, but participation was low. The new one-time settlement scheme is expected to attract more people and provide relief to the general public.
