PATNA, May 5 -- The Patna high court on Monday recorded the Bihar government's compliance with its directions on notifying a one-time traffic challan settlement scheme and issued a series of operational guidelines to ensure smooth disposal of pending cases during the upcoming National Lok Adalat on May 9. Hearing a writ petition (CWJC No. 20071 of 2025), a division bench of the Patna high court comprising chief Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo and Justice Harish Kumar on Monday noted that the state has notified the "One Time Traffic Challan Settlement Scheme, 2026" following cabinet approval, as assured earlier by the advocate general. The notification, issued on April 30, has also been published in the e-gazette and circulated among key authorities, including the traffic police, district magistrates, and legal services institutions. According to a supplementary counter affidavit filed by the transport department, the scheme aims to facilitate the disposal of a large number of pending traffic challans, including e-challans, by allowing settlement at reduced rates. The state said the framework was designed keeping in view similar measures adopted in other states, particularly Odisha. The government informed the court that district transport officers have been directed to coordinate with district legal services authorities to ensure effective implementation of the scheme during Lok Adalat. Public awareness campaigns have been initiated through newspaper advertisements and official communication channels. Taking note of the likelihood of heavy footfall at district courts, the division bench directed district administrations to make adequate arrangements in coordination with police and judicial authorities. This includes identifying additional spaces near court complexes, if required, to manage the expected crowd. The court emphasised that challan payments should be facilitated through online modes. Security and logistical arrangements were also underscored. The matter has been posted for further hearing on June 22....