Bihar Offers 50% Waiver on Pending Traffic Challans in One-Time Settlement Scheme

The Bihar government has introduced a 'One Time Traffic Challan Settlement Scheme' offering a 50% waiver on pending e-challans for traffic violations, applicable to fines issued up to 90 days prior, Additional Director General of Police (Traffic) Sudhanshu Kumar announced in Patna. The scheme, effective for challans pending until March 31, 2026, will be operational during Lok Adalat held on May 9 in all districts of the state.

Eligible individuals can pay reduced fines in cash or via UPI at designated Lok Adalat centers, with Deputy Superintendents of Police (Traffic) deployed in each district to oversee the process, Kumar said. The move aims to clear backlog and improve compliance, with officials urging vehicle owners to update records and clear dues promptly.

Kumar also highlighted the underutilization of the central government’s PM RAHAT scheme, launched on February 13, 2026, which provides cashless treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh within seven days of a road accident, provided admission occurs within 24 hours at an Ayushman Bharat-covered hospital. He emphasized digital platforms like eDAR and TMS for claim processing and the role of emergency number 112 in coordinating medical and police response.

Additionally, a new directive under Section 136 of the Motor Vehicles Act mandates release of accident vehicles within 24 hours of the MVI report, without requiring court intervention. All district-level traffic officers have been instructed to enforce this to reduce delays for vehicle owners.

The Lok Adalat for challan settlement is underway, with officials monitoring implementation across districts to ensure smooth processing and public compliance.