LEGAL

Ajrak Number Plate Deadline Extended Till August 14

Sindh extends Ajrak number plate deadline to Aug 14; no challans until then. Minister Mukesh Chawla says Ajrak is a cultural symbol & will stay on plates. Modern plates now mandatory with Safe City project.
2025-07-14
Ajrak Number Plate Deadline Extended Till August 14

The Government of Sindh has extended the deadline for the use of Ajrak-themed vehicle number plates till August 14, announced Provincial Minister for Excise, Taxation, and Narcotics Control Mukesh Kumar Chawla. He also instructed the police not to issue challans for Ajrak number plates until the extended deadline.

Speaking to the media in Karachi, Chawla reaffirmed that the Ajrak symbol — a hallmark of Sindh’s cultural heritage — will remain a part of vehicle number plates in the province.

“Ajrak is the identity and pride of Sindh. Some people may have developed ‘Ajrak phobia,’ but we will continue to preserve our culture on number plates,” he said.

Ajrak Plates Now with Security Features

Mukesh Kumar Chawla explained that the Ajrak number plates are not just symbolic but also come with modern security features. The plates are aligned with the Safe City project, and installing them has now been made mandatory.

“Modern number plates with Ajrak and built-in security features are part of our efforts to enhance surveillance and public safety,” Chawla added.

Challan Exemption Only for Number Plates

The minister clarified that while challans for Ajrak plates are suspended until August 14, other traffic rules remain in full effect. Violations related to helmets, vehicle documents, and other regulations will still be penalized as usual.

Chawla's remarks come amid some public criticism and confusion over the legitimacy and enforcement of the Ajrak-themed plates. The move to extend the deadline and affirm the design’s future has been welcomed by many, particularly in Sindh, where Ajrak is considered a deep cultural emblem.

Safe City Project Integration

The Safe City initiative, aimed at improving law enforcement through surveillance technology and smart traffic monitoring, now includes vehicle identification systems that rely on digitally secure number plates. The Ajrak plates have been upgraded to meet these standards.

The minister encouraged citizens to obtain the new plates before August 14 to avoid fines and contribute to the ongoing efforts to modernize traffic enforcement and vehicle tracking in Sindh.