Thiruvananthapuram: In a major move to crack down on repeat traffic offenders, the Motor Vehicles Act has been tightened, introducing strict penalties for frequent violations. Under the newly amended rules, drivers who receive five or more traffic challans in a year will face disqualification of their driving licence.
The amendments, approved by the Central Motor Vehicles Department, also empower authorities to blacklist vehicles involved in repeated violations. Such vehicles can be seized by the Motor Vehicles Department with court approval, marking a significant escalation in enforcement measures.
The Regional Transport Officer (RTO) will have the authority to initiate action against offenders. Before suspending a licence for three months, officials are required to hear the vehicle owner’s explanation, ensuring due process.
Under the new framework, traffic challans must be paid within 45 days, with no extension allowed. Offenders may either accept the challan or challenge it by filing an appeal along with supporting evidence. Failure to challenge the challan within the stipulated period will be considered an admission of guilt.
Appeals must be resolved within 30 days. If found valid, the challan will be cancelled. If rejected, the fine must be paid within 30 days of the order. Those wishing to approach the court must first deposit 50 per cent of the challan amount. Failure to pay or approach the court even after rejection will again be treated as acceptance of guilt, with the fine to be cleared within the next 15 days.
The revised rules incorporate recommendations from a meeting of Transport Commissioners, aiming to strengthen traffic discipline, reduce repeat offences, and enhance overall road safety across the country.
