Replicating Gujarat, Karnataka likely to reduce road traffic fines

The Karnataka Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) said yesterday that the state is likely to follow the steps taken by Gujarat government in slashing traffic fines. Gujarat recently slashed the hefty fines by nearly 50 per cent after the implementation of the Motor Vehicles Act.

Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on Wednesday directed Transport Department officials to examine the Gujarat government’s order on a drastic cut in fines for traffic violations under the amended Motor Vehicles (MV) Act and take immediate action to reduce the penalties in Karnataka. He said that he has directed officials to get the order of the Gujarat government, examine the same and take immediate action.

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Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani on Tuesday announced the revised fines for traffic violations.Gujarat has reduced the fines for not wearing a helmet, and seat belt to Rs 500 as against the prescribed amount of Rs 1000 in the new Motor Vehicle Act. Driving without a valid license will cost Rs 2,000 to bikers and Rs 3,000 to four-wheeler drivers as against Rs 5000 mentioned in the Act, in Gujarat.

“Accidents don’t occur because of bad roads. It is because of good and safe roads that accidents take place. Our people drive at 120-160 kmph. Many accidents take place on highways. I won’t support exhorbitant fines. Our cabinet will discuss to how to re look into fines,” Said Govind Makthappa Karajol Deputy CM, Karnataka.