Deadline Set in Karachi for Vehicles With Illegal Number Plates

Karachi police have warned motorists to replace illegal or unreadable number plates by December 5, as part of a citywide crackdown. Authorities have said vehicles with forged, missing, or tampered plates will be seized if drivers fail to comply.

The enforcement comes after Additional Inspector General Javed Alam Odho ordered “strict and indiscriminate action” against vehicles using fake or unidentifiable plates. Citizens have been told to ensure their vehicle and motorcycle number plates meet legal standards before the deadline. Vehicles seized for violations will only be released following formal legal proceedings.

Police spokesperson said the campaign aims to stop the widespread use of altered plates, which has risen since the introduction of the e-challan system. “Many people remove or hide their plates to avoid fines,” the spokesperson explained.

Inspector Muhammad Yousuf Mehr, Station House Officer of Orangi Town, added that snap checks will be conducted across the city. “After December 5, all vehicles and motorcycles will be stopped for inspection of their plates,” he said.

READ MORE: Green Line BRT Expansion to Connect Key Karachi Routes

The police will verify vehicle documents including registration numbers, engine numbers, and chassis numbers through the Excise Department’s online portal or CPLC records. Drivers’ identities will also be confirmed using the Tasdeeq biometric app, which can flag any criminal record.

Vehicles with stolen or suspicious plates will be seized under Section 550 of the Criminal Procedure Code, and legal proceedings must be completed for their release.

Mehr noted that even if a vehicle is clear, drivers with criminal records will face further action. Authorities believe the crackdown will boost security and reduce vehicle thefts in Karachi. The drive will officially begin on December 6, with strict action against violators.