In a significant move to curb reckless driving and ensure better road safety, the government has announced a sharp increase in fines for motor vehicle offences. The revised penalties, effective from March 1, 2025, aim to deter traffic violations and enforce stricter discipline on Indian roads.
The new fines see a substantial rise compared to the previous penalties, with added provisions for imprisonment and community service for repeated offences. Below is a detailed breakdown of the revised traffic fines:
Major Changes in Traffic Fines
1. Drunken Driving
Previously, the fine for drunken driving ranged from ₹1,000 to ₹1,500. Under the new rules, offenders will be fined ₹10,000 and/or face six months in prison for the first violation. Repeat offenders could be fined ₹15,000 and/or imprisoned for up to two years.
2. Riding Without a Helmet
The fine for riding without a helmet has increased from ₹100 to ₹1,000, with an additional penalty of licence suspension for three months.
3. Not Wearing a Seatbelt
Failure to fasten seat belts will now attract a fine of ₹1,000, a tenfold increase from the previous ₹100.
4. Using a Mobile Phone While Driving
Using mobile phones while driving was earlier penalized with ₹500, but the fine has now been increased to ₹5,000.
5. Driving Without a Valid Licence
Driving without a valid driving licence will now attract a hefty fine of ₹5,000, up from ₹500.
6. Triple Riding on Two-Wheelers
The fine for triple riding has been raised from ₹100 to ₹1,000.
7. Driving Without Valid Insurance
The fine for driving without insurance has been increased to ₹2,000, along with a penalty of three months in prison or community service. Repeat violations could lead to a fine of ₹4,000.
8. Driving Without a Valid Pollution Certificate
Driving without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will now invite a fine of ₹10,000 and/or up to six months in prison with community service.
9. Dangerous Driving
Reckless or dangerous driving will now attract a fine of ₹5,000, up from ₹500.
10. Blocking Emergency Vehicles
Failure to make way for emergency vehicles like ambulances and fire trucks will result in a steep penalty of ₹10,000, up from ₹1,000.
11. Racing or Speeding on Public Roads
Engaging in racing or speeding will now cost violators ₹5,000, up from ₹500.
12. Overloading
The fine for overloading vehicles has seen a massive jump from ₹2,000 to ₹20,000.
13. Jumping Traffic Signals
The penalty for signal jumping has been increased from ₹500 to ₹5,000.
14. Offences by Juveniles
Strict measures have been introduced for traffic offences committed by juveniles (below 18 years). The fine has been raised from ₹2,500 to ₹25,000, along with a three-year imprisonment for the guardian/vehicle owner. Additionally, the vehicle’s registration will be cancelled for one year, and the juvenile will be ineligible to obtain a driving licence until the age of 25.
Government’s Justification for Higher Fines
Authorities believe these increased fines will reduce reckless driving, ensure compliance with traffic laws, and enhance road safety. The steep penalties for offences such as drunken driving, signal jumping, and overspeeding are intended to deter irresponsible behavior on the roads. The introduction of prison sentences and community service for certain violations emphasizes the seriousness of traffic offences.
A government spokesperson stated, “The rise in traffic fines is a much-needed step to enforce stricter discipline among drivers. Every year, thousands of lives are lost due to road accidents caused by negligence. With these new penalties, we hope to bring significant improvement in road safety.”
Public Reaction
While some citizens support these revised fines as a necessary step to improve traffic discipline, others argue that such steep penalties might lead to increased corruption among enforcement officers. Transport unions have also expressed concerns about the economic impact on drivers, particularly those in commercial transport.
A local commuter in Lucknow commented, “The fines are too high, but if they help in reducing accidents and making roads safer, it is a good move.” Another resident expressed worries about potential harassment by traffic police, urging the government to ensure proper implementation.
Conclusion
With these stringent penalties set to come into effect from March 1, 2025, drivers are advised to strictly adhere to traffic rules to avoid hefty fines and legal action. While the revised fines may seem harsh, they are expected to significantly enhance road safety and bring about greater awareness regarding traffic regulations.
