Odisha Govt Announces Major Relief for Motorists: Clear Traffic Challans at Reduced Rates via Lok Adalat
Lok Adalat
Bhubaneswar, March 15, 2026 — In a major move to decongest judicial backlogs and provide relief to vehicle owners, the Government of Odisha has officially notified a special settlement scheme for pending traffic e-challans. This initiative, sanctioned by the Commerce and Transport (Transport) Department, allows citizens to settle outstanding fines at significantly reduced rates during the National Lok Adalat sessions.
One-Time Settlement Scheme Details
According to Notification No. 3822 dated March 12, 2026, the government has streamlined the compounding process for several common traffic violations. Motorists with unpaid challans issued up to July 31, 2025, can now resolve their cases by paying fixed concessional amounts.
Key Highlights of the Order:
Legal Immunity: Once a challan is settled under this scheme, any pending Prosecution Reports (PRs) in court will be withdrawn, and no new PRs will be filed.
Broad Eligibility: The order applies to all pending traffic challans for specific offences regardless of the original offence date.
Consent-Based: Cases will be taken up in the National Lok Adalat only with the violator’s consent.
Reduced Fine Table (Sample Offences)
The notification outlines a substantial reduction in penalties for various sections of the Motor Vehicles (MV) Act.
How to Settle Your Challans
Vehicle owners in Odisha have until March 31, 2026, to take advantage of this online settlement facility.
Online Portal: Visit the official Parivahan e-challan website (echallan.parivahan.gov.in) to check eligibility and pay the reduced fine directly.
Lok Adalat Venues: Citizens can also visit designated help-desks or compounding counters at Lok Adalat venues across the state.
Required Documents: When attending in person, it is recommended to carry your Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC), Driving Licence, and insurance papers.
While the first major session of the year was held on March 14, 2026, the next National Lok Adalat sittings are scheduled for May 9, September 12, and December 12, 2026.
