Helmet price touching high in Hyderabad after e-challan launch

The rollout of the e-challan system in Hyderabad has led to a sudden surge in helmet prices, leaving commuters frustrated over what they describe as a “double punishment” on the roads.

Following Karachi, traffic authorities have introduced the e-challan system in Sindh’s second-largest city, imposing hefty fines on motorcyclists found riding without helmets.

However, the enforcement drive has triggered an unexpected consequence. As demand for helmets surged overnight, local vendors reportedly doubled prices, capitalising on the rush by residents eager to avoid traffic fines.

Many commuters said they were compelled to purchase helmets immediately, only to discover that prices had soared far beyond what they previously paid.

Residents accused shopkeepers of profiteering and exploiting the situation.

The move has also sparked criticism of the government’s priorities. Citizens questioned why authorities moved swiftly to impose e-fines while ignoring the city’s deteriorating road infrastructure. Several major roads in Hyderabad remain dug up or partially damaged, making daily travel hazardous.

Locals argued that if road safety is the government’s true concern, enforcement measures must be accompanied by practical steps.

These include regulating helmet prices, ensuring affordable safety gear, and prioritising the repair of damaged roads.

“If authorities are genuinely concerned about safety, they should curb profiteering, make helmets accessible to all, and fix the roads instead of focusing solely on e-challans,” a commuter said.