THE introduction of ajrak-themed number plates for vehicles in Sindh may seem like a cultural tribute, but the cost being imposed on the people raises serious concerns. The Sindh government has fixed the fee for new number plates at Rs2,450 for cars and Rs1,850 for motorcycles and rickshaws. As such, this sum is entirely disproportionate to the actual cost of production.

Based on a rough estimate, the material and processing costs for a number plate do not exceed Rs100 to Rs150 because of the mass scale of production. Even after adding administrative overheads and distribution expenses, the total should barely cross Rs500.

Why are the people being charged five times that much? Or, if one may ask, why are the people being charged anything at all for something they have not even demanded?

This pricing structure indicates either severe inefficiency, a deliberate attempt to boost government revenue at the public’s expense, or, worse, a hidden deal favouring a supplier who may have imported these plates under inflated rates.

Regardless of the reason, the people are being fleeced under the guise of ‘modernisation’ and ‘cultural pride’.

The Sindh government should bear the expense if it feels these number plates are so necessary that no car could be driven without them. Or, at least there should be a review of these rates in the spirit of transparency and fairness.

Now it is the responsibility of the Sindh government to ensure that public welfare is not sacrificed at the altar of cosmetic initiatives or covert commercial interests of any person, or a particular group of people.

Imran Baloch
Karachi

Published in Dawn, July 30th, 2025