Motorists across the country need to be extra cautious while driving as the implementation of significantly increased penalties for traffic violations has begun. The new enforcement regime introduces fines ranging from a minimum of Rs 1,000 to a maximum of Rs 25,000, with certain serious offenses also carrying prison sentences.
The stricter penalties have been introduced to reduce road accidents and enforce greater discipline among road users. The revised fines and punishments came into effect on March 1, 2025, and authorities have already begun enforcing these regulations across the country.
Comprehensive List of New Traffic Violation Penalties
The most substantial increases are seen in penalties for drunken driving, which now carries a fine of Rs 10,000 and potential imprisonment for six months. Repeat offenders face even steeper consequences with fines of Rs 15,000 and possible imprisonment for up to two years.
Another area of significant focus is juvenile driving, which now carries the maximum penalty of Rs 25,000, along with three years of imprisonment. Additionally, the vehicle registration will be canceled for one year, and the juvenile will be ineligible to obtain a driving license until reaching 25 years of age.
Other notable changes include a tenfold increase in the fine for riding without a helmet, from Rs 100 to Rs 1,000, plus a three-month license suspension. Using a mobile phone while driving now attracts a penalty of Rs 5,000, up from the previous Rs 500.
Traffic authorities have emphasized that these measures are necessary to improve road safety across the country. Officials have urged all motorists to familiarize themselves with the new penalties and ensure strict compliance with traffic rules to avoid heavy fines and potential imprisonment.
Law enforcement agencies have also been instructed to implement these new regulations strictly and without exception. Special monitoring teams have been deployed in major cities to ensure adherence to the new penalty structure.
Road safety experts have welcomed these changes, pointing out that stringent penalties are often necessary to create a deterrent effect and encourage responsible driving behavior among citizens.
Also Read: