The Telangana government has issued an official order stating that traffic challans delivered through WhatsApp, SMS or email will be treated as officially served after a one-month grace period, even if vehicle owners claim they did not receive or view the message.
The move is aimed at strengthening traffic enforcement and improving the recovery of pending fines. As part of the new framework, vehicle owners have been directed to update their mobile numbers and email addresses on the Vahan portal within 30 days of the notification's publication.
Mandatory update of contact details
Under the new directive, all vehicle owners in the state must verify and update their contact information on the Vahan portal within one month.
Officials said the measure is intended to ensure that traffic challans and other transport-related communications are delivered directly to registered vehicle owners without delay.
Electronic challans receive legal recognition
The government has authorised SMS, WhatsApp and email as valid electronic channels for serving traffic challans through a notification issued under Rule 167 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
With this provision, enforcement agencies can serve challans digitally, reducing dependence on physical delivery methods.
Non-receipt of message not a valid ground
According to the notification, any challan sent to the mobile number or email address recorded in the Vahan database after the one-month deadline will be deemed to have been delivered to the vehicle owner.
As a result, motorists may no longer be able to contest traffic violation notices on the grounds that they did not receive the communication or were unaware of the challan.
Reason behind the decision
Officials stated that a substantial number of challans remain unpaid because of outdated contact details and disputes regarding the delivery of notices.
By linking challan service to information available in the Vahan database, authorities aim to improve compliance and facilitate faster recovery of pending dues.
The decision follows amendments introduced earlier this year by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, which permit states to use electronic communication channels for serving challans.
Advice for vehicle owners
Vehicle owners have been advised to promptly check and update their registered mobile numbers and email addresses on the Vahan portal.
Authorities cautioned that failure to update contact details could result in notices being sent to outdated information while still being considered legally served.
Transport officials said the new system is expected to make the challan process more transparent, efficient and accountable while reducing disputes related to the non-receipt of notices.
