Bhubaneswar, Sep 10: In a significant move to improve road safety and streamline enforcement, the Odisha Cabinet has approved a One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme for individuals with pending e-challans under the Motor Vehicles Act.
The scheme aims to encourage compliance with traffic laws while facilitating efficient recovery of outstanding fines.
The OTS scheme will apply to all e-challans pending at the Regional Transport Office (RTO) level as of July 31, 2025. Under this limited-time offer, violators can settle their dues by paying a reduced amount, avoiding the full penalties otherwise applicable under the Motor Vehicles Act.
The scheme will remain in effect for six months from the date of its official notification. It is designed not only to clear a backlog of challans but also to promote safer driving habits across the state.
To manage cases already referred to the courts, a committee led by the Principal Secretary of the Law Department will oversee the disposal process. Meanwhile, the Transport Department will continue strict enforcement of traffic laws, especially targeting repeat offenders and non-compliant drivers.
This initiative is expected to significantly reduce the volume of pending challans and improve overall road safety in Odisha.
In another key decision, the Odisha Cabinet has approved the procurement of 428 new ambulances to strengthen the state's emergency healthcare infrastructure.
421 ambulances will replace old EMAS (Emergency Medical Ambulance Service) vehicles that have exceeded five years of service or have run over 2.5 lakh kilometers.
