Motor Vehicles Bill passed in Rajya Sabha with increased penalties on traffic violators

The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill, 2019 is passed in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday receiving 108 votes in favour it while only 13 votes going against it. Now, with the passing of the bill, it is expected that the traffic rules in the country are to undergo a noticeable transformation and of course for the better. Right from the elimination of corruption in the transport sector to improving road safety of the commuters, a lot has been ensured and expected to be brought into action by the Modi government. Not only this, with the bill being passed in the Upper House, better and upgraded technologies will also be used for improved management of traffic.

The major points of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill are mentioned here for a better acquaintance with the new rules:

Increased penalties: as proposed by the bill, the penalties charged on the traffic rule breakers will be increased. There will be stricter actions on commonly found offenses like juvenile driving, driving after drinking, non-license holders, rush or stunt driving, over-speeding and pillion riding etc. Moreover, the two-wheeler riders without a helmet will be detected through electronic detection. The traffic rule breakers will have to pay a penalty increased by 10 % and this is going to increase with every year.

Fitness testing for vehicles: It will be mandatory for the vehicle holders to undergo automated fitness testing for their vehicles as this will reduce corruption in the transport department along with also improving the roadworthiness of the vehicle. Deliberate violators will have to pay a penalty.

Recalling of vehicle: As per the bill provisions, the central government will have the authority to recall the motor vehicles, on a vehicle being detected with a threat to the environment or other road users.

Increased penalties: The traffic rule offenders will have to pay an increased penalty as drug and alcohol user drivers will be fined with a penalty up to Rs 10,000. A vehicle manufacturer on failing to comply with motor vehicle standards will be charged with a fine of up to Rs 100 crore, or an imprisonment of up to one year, or at times, both. A road contractor, on being found to fail in complying with road design standards will have to pay a fine of up to one lakh rupees.

Also read: Motor Vehicles Act: Give way to emergency service providers or pay a fine of Rs 10,000