Planning an Onam trip? E-challan glitch could keep some vehicles off roads

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A technical glitch in Kerala’s e-Challan portal is leaving vehicle owners unable to pay traffic fines online, with taxi operators among those facing difficulties as they try to get their vehicles ready for the road before Onam. The problem has continued for three days. Cases already transferred to court have to be retrieved by the police or Motor Vehicles Department before the fines can be paid online. The portal glitch has prevented that process from being completed.

The disruption is particularly troublesome for taxi operators, who need valid fitness certificates to operate their vehicles. Those trying to complete the formalities before Onam are now caught in the delay, with their vehicles unable to return to service and their income affected.

The e-Challan portal normally allows vehicle owners to check violation details and pay outstanding fines. While the Vahan software used for other vehicle-related services is known to experience frequent glitches, the e-Challan system has generally functioned more reliably.
With the portal still malfunctioning, vehicle owners are now having to wait for the technical issue to be resolved before they can clear pending fines and complete the necessary formalities.