Introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Government of India, in 2017 on a pilot basis by the Mumbai Traffic police in October 2016, the e-challan system has since been put into practive all over the country. Aimed at digitising the process of traffic violation enforcement by eliminating manual loopholes, the system is proving to be annoying for transporters however.

It is not the technology, but the ones who deploy the system, claims transporters. Stating that the e-challan system has over time become a source of significant distress for transporters even though its introduction was appreciated by the industry as it digitised the process of traffic violation enforcement and eliminated many manual loopholes, Bal Malkit Singh, Chairman - Core Committe and Former President, All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), averred, "The system has over time become a source of significant distress for transporters and other road users. It has become a new ‘Frankenstein’ and death knell for the road transport sector.” 

Stating that a strong resentment is brewing and the transport fraternity across the country is agitating, Singh said, “The intention behind e-challans is to improve transparency and reduce manual intervention, but several issues have risen to complicate the situation for transporters.” “The primary issue stems from the large volume of incorrect or excessive e-challans issued to them. Many trucks plying long distances are receiving multiple e-challans for the same alleged offense or due to erroneous readings from speed detection or overloading devices,” he added. 

Giving an example of trucks travelling through multiple states often receiving fines for supposed infractions such as over-speeding or minor overloading even though they are within legal limits, Singh explained, “Such errors accumulate and led to a financial strain for transporters. This is exacerbated as transporters operate nationwide – covering diverse terrains and jurisdictions – that would mean that they may be penalised in various states.” “These fines often lack clarity or the chance for immediate redressal, leading to confusion and increased operational costs,” he elaborated.

Informing that enforcement officials have found a way around technology to generate motivated challans without any verifiable proof of offence, which is leading to acute harassment of the transport fraternity, Singh articulated, “There is neither authentication of any violation through static photo nor there is any transparency leading to acute harassment of the transport fraternity. Static photo of a parked vehicle is clicked and challans are issued for random offences. The vehicle owner may be from a geographically distant state and cannot contest the challan in court. Lack of communication regarding issuance of e-challan to the vehicle owner/operators who is sitting in one part of the country and must travel across the length and breadth of it to get it disposed/rectified.”

With instance where the vehicle owner comes to know of the challans issued only after he tries to dispose of his vehicle, goes to renew its fitness and to renew the permit (in the case of commercial vehicles), the issues with e-challans is pan-India in nature than be limited to a certain geographically or cultural area it looks like. 

Transport associations like the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) have voiced concerns and are actively engaging with state and central authorities to address the growing problem. They have raised issues related to inaccurate e-challans due to technical errors or faulty detection equipment, lack of a unified system across states leading to inconsistency in how fines are issued and difficulty in contesting these fines as there is no streamlined process for redressal or appealing incorrect challans.

They are demanding a centralised and transparent grievance redressal system, standardisation of e-challan policies, equipment calibration across states and leniency or waiver of penalties that are clearly issued due to system malfunctions, according to Singh. 

Of the opinion that traffic enforcement is a state subject, Singh expressed that the intensity and frequency of issues differ state-to-state therefore and in some states use of faulty equipment or overly strict enforcement practices that has led to a higher number of incorrect challans. Singh drew attention to issues like non-integration with national vehicle databases (such as Vahan 4) in some states. “The system in Telangana for example,” Singh articulated, “has been of specific concern for transporters because it is not fully integrated with the national system, leading to problems like wrongful issuance of challans for vehicles from other states.” 

"The potential solutions to addressing the issue of e-challan," Singh commented, “Is to ensure scientifically verifiable evidence. A centralised grievance redressal system with a nodal officer should be put in place. The exact recording of the offence with exact measurement in case of over-height or overload or similar such case should be presented rather than a picture to avoid any doubt about motivated action. Equipment and procedures should be standardised. Vehicle databases should be integrated. Enforcement officials should ne trained to be humane. The accountability of the enforcement officials should be ascertained whenever the issue of motivated challans is there." 

Image for representative purpose only. 

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The India-Japan Fund (IJF), managed by the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIF), has announced an investment of INR 5 billion (USD 57 million) in Pune-headquartered electric commercial vehicle manufacturer EKA Mobility.

The capital infusion aligns with IJF's objective to invest in the climate segment and accelerate investments within the India-Japan corridor. EKA Mobility, a subsidiary of Pinnacle Industries, focuses on electric commercial vehicles developed with in-house R&D and technology.

The funding will support EKA Mobility’s plans to increase its manufacturing capacity, advance research and development, improve its supply chain infrastructure and enhance marketing efforts for domestic and international markets. EKA Mobility's existing shareholders include VDL Groep (Netherlands), Mitsui & Co, (Japan) and ENAM Holdings (India).

Krishna Kumar, Partner & Fund Head, IJF, said, “Our investment in EKA Mobility continues to reflect our confidence in India’s electric mobility potential and the capability of homegrown OEMs to drive meaningful change in the market. IJF is supporting enterprises that are shaping India’s journey to a low-carbon economy, and also committed to promoting India-Japan business partnerships. We are glad to support Eka Mobility's growth in the sustainable commercial transportation segment, wherein it combines its technical, design capabilities and manufacturing infrastructure to take advantage of India's transition in the mobility segment.”

Dr. Sudhir Mehta, Founder & Chairman of EKA Mobility, added: “We are proud to have NIIF as a strategic partner in our growth journey. This investment comes at a crucial time as we expand operations, strengthen our R&D, and accelerate the adoption of electric mobility across India. NIIF’s support reinforces our shared vision of creating sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready transportation solutions.”

The company's zero-emission vehicle portfolio spans electric buses, intercity coaches, three-wheeler passenger and cargo vehicles, heavy-duty trucks and small commercial vehicles.

EKA Mobility has confirmed orders for over 3,300 electric buses from state government procurements, municipal corporation contracts, and private commercial fleets. The collaboration supports the Indian government’s objectives on electrification of public transport and domestic manufacturing under the Make-in-India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

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Chennai-based commercial vehicle major Ashok Leyland has secured an order for supplying 1,937 buses to the Tamil Nadu State Transport Undertakings (TNSTU). The order further reinforces Ashok Leyland's partnership with the TNSTU, which currently operates over 21,000 of the company's buses.

The new buses will feature the advanced iGen6 BS VI technology and are designed for passenger comfort. The order includes a mix of fully built and chassis configurations for town, mofussil and SETC (State Express Transport Corporation) applications. Each vehicle is built on the AIS 153-compliant chassis platform, which meets the latest Indian safety and performance regulations.

The order for a mix of the new Viking and SETC models offer features to meet the needs of public transport:

• Power Needs: All Town / Mofussil and SETC buses have an upgraded Battery and Alternator to meet the power needs of Advanced ITMS (Intelligent Transport Management Systems).
• Safety: High-speed Mofussil and SETC buses are equipped with Electronic Stability Control for improved stability.
• Comfort: Urban Low Entry and Semi Low Floor buses (650mm) include automatic transmission and air suspension, and are equipped with a wheelchair ramp for passengers with special needs.

Madhavi Deshmukh, National Sales Head – MHCV, Ashok Leyland, said, “We are proud to strengthen our long-standing partnership with the Tamil Nadu State Transport Undertakings through this significant order. Tamil Nadu has always been an important market for us, and this order is a testament to the trust and confidence our customers place in Ashok Leyland’s technology and performance. This order win reinforces our dedication to creating efficient and technologically advanced products that exceed our customers' expectations and contribute to the growth of public transportation. Our focus continues to be on developing advanced, safe and efficient mobility solutions that meet the evolving needs of public transportation in India.”

Mohan K, Head Bus - MHCV, Ashok Leyland, said, “We are thrilled to have received this order from the Tamil Nadu State Transport Undertakings for 1937 buses. Tamil Nadu has always been one of our most valued markets, and we take great pride in being a key partner in strengthening the state’s public transport system. These advanced buses, equipped with the latest safety, technology and comfort features, underscore our commitment to delivering reliable, efficient, and safe mobility solutions. We remain dedicated to supporting the government’s vision of providing modern and sustainable transportation for the people of Tamil Nadu.”

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Chennai-based commercial vehicle major Ashok Leyland has commenced deliveries of the 24 units of AVTR 55T Electric trucks to ASAT Logistics, which is the strategic logistics partner for Shree Cement.

The keys to the first batch of four trucks were handed over by Sanjeev Kumar, President - MHCV, Ashok Leyland, to Arvind Sarda, CEO, ASAT Logistics.

The trucks use lithium-ion battery technology with dual-gun charging and are compatible with industry-standard trailers and superstructures. The vehicles include a cabin, automatic transmission, telematics and a suite of Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) and safety features.

Sanjeev Kumar, said, “We are thrilled to deliver the first batch of 4 units of our AVTR 55T Electric trucks to ASAT Logistics. These trucks highlight our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and performance in the commercial vehicle sector. This partnership reflects the growing confidence in our electric mobility solutions and reinforces our position as a technology leader in the logistics ecosystem. As we continue to push the boundaries of clean transportation, we remain focused on delivering reliable, efficient, and future-ready mobility solutions.”

Arvind Sarda, said, “We have complete trust in the quality and performance of Ashok Leyland trucks. Together with Shree Cement, we embark on a journey toward a cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable future. We thank Ashok Leyland for delivering the technologically advanced AVTR 55T Electric trucks, enabling us to take further our commitment to building a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation ecosystem. With Ashok Leyland’s dedication to innovation and our forward-thinking approach to logistics for Shree Cement, we look forward to continued success on the road.”

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Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, one of India’s leading players in the commercial vehicle segment, has unveiled what it claims is its most advanced intercity platform yet – the all-new Tata LPO 1822 bus chassis.

The Tata LPO 1822 is said to provide a superior ride experience through its full-air suspension and low NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) attributes – ensuring a fatigue-free journey for passengers and drivers alike. It is available in flexible configurations ranging from 36-seaters to 50-seaters and sleeper layouts.

Anand S, Vice-President and Head – Commercial Passenger Vehicle Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles, said, “India’s intercity transport ecosystem is undergoing a transformation, driven by rising connectivity and growing passenger expectations. The Tata LPO 1822 is an advanced product – combining superior ride quality, robust engineering and intelligent features to deliver unmatched value. It is a win-win for passengers, drivers and fleet owners – elevating comfort, enhancing safety and improving profitability.”

The LPO 1822 is powered by a 5.6-litre Cummins diesel engine, which delivers 220hp and 925Nm of torque. The chassis also serves as the underpinning for the fully built Tata Magna Coach.

As part of aftersales peace-of-mind, the LPO 1822 comes with a complimentary four-year subscription to Fleet Edge, Tata Motors’ next generation connected vehicle platform, which provides real-time diagnostics, predictive maintenance and data-driven fleet optimisation.

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