KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) has rejected an urgent plea challenging the provincial government’s implementation of the new Ajrak-themed vehicle number plates, including for motorcycles.
The petition was filed by social activist Faizan Hussain, who argued that the government’s enforcement of the new plates is causing financial hardship for low-income residents. The complaint states that under the recent government notification, motorcycles without the updated Ajrak plates face fines, and some are even being confiscated.
During today’s proceedings, Justice Zulfiqar Sangi remarked that the matter, involving a relatively small amount of money, should not be given priority during the court’s recess, especially considering other urgent cases pending before the court. The judge ordered that the issue be revisited after the court’s vacation period.
Advocate Mushtaq Tanoli, representing the petitioner, emphasized that thousands of motorcyclists are being fined regularly, raising concerns about the public’s welfare. The petition contends that citizens had already purchased the previous number plates—also approved by the government—and should not be forced to incur additional expenses. It also calls for the government to supply the new plates free of charge and to suspend fines and vehicle seizures related to the absence of the updated Ajrak plates.
The petition named the Secretary of Excise and Taxation, the Motor Vehicle Registration Department, and the DIG Traffic as respondents, seeking directives for authorities to distribute the new plates at no cost and to halt fines and impoundments until the matter is resolved.
