35+ two wheelers seized in four days in Visakhapatnam; 10x higher traffic fines in India

Tougher Penalties Nationwide: Hefty Fines, License Suspensions, and Jail Time

From 1 March 2025, a sharp increase in penalties for traffic violations is being enforced across India, with the government aiming to curb reckless driving and enhance road safety. Offenders now face higher fines, potential jail time, and even mandatory community service.

Harsh Penalties for Drunk Driving and Document Violations

• Drunk driving fines have surged from Rs 1,000–Rs 1,500 to Rs 10,000 for first-time offenders, with up to six months in jail. Repeat offenders will be fined Rs 15,000 and could face up to two years in prison.
• Driving without a valid license now attracts a Rs 5,000 fine, while lacking insurance will cost Rs 2,000.
• Failing to produce a Pollution Control Certificate (PoC) can result in a hefty Rs 10,000 fine, up to six months in jail, and mandatory community service. Repeat violations may lead to additional fines and imprisonment.

Higher Fines for Mobile Phone Use, Helmet, and Seat Belt Violations

• Using a mobile phone while driving will now result in a Rs 5,000 fine, a tenfold increase from the previous Rs 500 penalty.
• Failing to wear a seat belt will attract a Rs 1,000 fine.
• Riding a two-wheeler without a helmet will result in the same Rs 1,000 fine along with a three-month license suspension.

Crackdown on Overloading and Minors Driving Vehicles

• The fine for overloading vehicles has skyrocketed from Rs 2,000 to Rs 20,000.
• Minors caught driving will now face severe consequences: a Rs 25,000 fine, up to three years in jail, cancellation of vehicle registration, and a driving ban until the age of 25.

These stricter measures highlight the government’s commitment to improving road safety and enforcing compliance. With the new penalties set to take effect soon, motorists are urged to adopt safer driving habits to avoid hefty fines and legal consequences.