Odisha's Ambitious Traffic Challan Settlement Scheme Falls Flat
In a startling revelation, the Odisha government's one-time settlement scheme for traffic e-challans has managed to recover a mere 1% of the staggering Rs 1,597 crore in pending dues since its launch on September 19. The scheme, designed to offer substantial relief to traffic violators, appears to be facing massive public indifference despite its generous terms.
Disappointing Numbers Tell the Story
According to official data from the transport department, only Rs 21.49 crore has been collected under the scheme between September 19 and November 11. This paltry amount stands in stark contrast to the total outstanding amount of Rs 1,597.26 crore that the government hoped to recover.
The scheme offers defaulters an attractive up to 50% waiver on fines that were pending as of July 31, 2025. However, vehicle owners have only until March 19, 2026 to avail themselves of this benefit before the window closes permanently.
Historical Context and Previous Collections
Between 2020 and July 2025, Odisha authorities issued approximately 77 lakh e-challans worth a massive Rs 2,250.69 crore. Before the OTS scheme was implemented, about Rs 653.43 crore (29%) had already been paid by compliant citizens, leaving the substantial balance that the current scheme aims to address.
Officials Identify Multiple Reasons for Poor Response
Transport department officials have expressed concern over what they describe as widespread apathy and nonchalant conduct among defaulters. Many vehicle owners continue to ignore challans despite the substantial discounts being offered.
"In some cases, the challan amount is nearly equal to the current value of their old vehicles, which discourages payment," revealed a transport department official who preferred to remain anonymous.
The government has issued warnings that vehicle-related transactions linked to unpaid challans may be cancelled, yet this threat appears to have done little to motivate defaulters. "Yet, many violators remain indifferent, assuming no action will be taken," the official added.
Awareness Campaigns and Official Portal
Lack of awareness has also been identified as a significant factor contributing to the low recovery rate. State transport commissioner Amitabh Thakur confirmed that "RTOs have launched massive awareness campaigns in their jurisdictions. Posters and banners have been installed at public places to draw attention to the scheme."
To simplify the payment process, the government has established an official portal at echallan.parivahan.gov.in where defaulters can conveniently settle their dues online. Authorities have stressed the importance of using only the official website to avoid falling victim to online scams.
Covered Violations and Payment Process
The OTS scheme encompasses 26 sections of the Motor Vehicles Act, including common violations such as:
- Riding without a helmet
- Driving without a seatbelt
- Operating a vehicle without a valid driving licence
- Driving without valid insurance
Valid for six months from its notification date, the scheme allows violators to pay their fines online by simply entering their challan or vehicle number, verifying their identity through OTP, and completing the payment at the discounted rates.
With the March 2026 deadline approaching, authorities hope that more vehicle owners will recognize the financial benefit of settling their dues under this scheme rather than facing potential legal consequences and transaction blocks in the future.
