Linking Pending Fines to Higher Insurance Premiums
Authorities are considering linking unpaid challans to higher insurance premiums. If a driver has at least two pending challans from the previous financial year, they may be required to pay more for vehicle insurance. The plan follows a Supreme Court order directing 23 states and seven Union Territories to ensure compliance with electronic traffic monitoring under the Central Motor Vehicles Act.
Use of Technology for Better Enforcement
Under Section 136A of the Act, advanced technologies such as speed and CCTV cameras, speed-guns, body-worn cameras, and automatic number plate recognition systems will be used to enhance traffic rule enforcement. These measures aim to improve the detection of violations and ensure prompt action.
Low Recovery Rates in Key States
Data shows that Delhi has the lowest rate of fine recovery at just 14%, followed by Karnataka (21%), Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh (27% each), and Odisha (29%). In contrast, states like Rajasthan, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Haryana report a higher recovery rate of 62%-76%.
Court Relief for Challan Disputes
Many drivers who contest their fines in court receive substantial relief. Data indicates that around 80% of fines imposed by police are reduced when taken to court. Reasons for delayed payments include late challan alerts and errors in issued fines.
New Standard Operating Procedures for E-Challans
To streamline the process, the government plans to implement a standard operating procedure (SOP) with minimum specifications for traffic cameras and ensure timely notifications about pending challans. As per the proposed rules:Drivers will receive an e-challan notice within three days of the violation.They must pay the fine within 30 days or challenge it before the grievance authority.
If no action is taken within 30 days, it will be considered an admission of guilt.
Non-payment within 90 days will lead to the suspension of the driving licence or vehicle registration until the fine is settled.
Addressing Data Update Issues
To address issues caused by outdated contact details, the government will offer a one-time window of three months for drivers to update their information on the Vahan and Saarthi portals. After this period, updating mobile numbers will become mandatory for availing services such as Pollution Under Control (PUC) certification, insurance renewal, and licence or registration certificate renewal.
These measures aim to improve traffic rule compliance and ensure that fines are paid promptly.
