₹1.11 lakh fine imposed on modified car in Bengaluru; penalty exceeds vehicle value

Bengaluru:In a strong enforcement action against illegal vehicle modifications, officials of the Yelahanka Regional Transport Office (RTO) have imposed a hefty fine of ₹1,11,500 on a car that had undergone extensive and unauthorised alterations. Ironically, the car itself is estimated to be worth only around ₹70,000, making the penalty significantly higher than the vehicle’s market value.

The car, bearing a Kerala registration number (KL 07 AB 8764), was spotted creating a loud, disturbing noise while moving along the Bharathi Nagar–Hennur Road. The modified silencer produced excessive sound, causing inconvenience to the public. Annoyed commuters recorded videos of the vehicle and shared them on social media, while also alerting the police.

Acting swiftly on the complaints, Yelahanka traffic police traced the vehicle and intercepted it. The car was being driven by Mohammed Saifan, a student from Kerala who is currently pursuing his studies in Bengaluru. Upon inspection, the police found that the vehicle had undergone multiple illegal modifications, including a tampered silencer. The matter was immediately reported to the Yelahanka RTO for further action.

Transport Inspector Nagarathna, along with RTO staff, reached the spot and seized the vehicle. Officials noted that the car was a 2007–08 model, making it nearly 17 years old. Black tinted glass had been fitted to prevent visibility of occupants inside the car, in clear violation of motor vehicle rules. The vehicle had also been repainted in multiple colours, and the headlights were modified into disco-style lights, further breaching safety and regulatory norms.

Following a detailed inspection, the RTO imposed a fine under Section 182(1)(a) of the Motor Vehicles Act for unauthorised modifications and related violations. Yelahanka Regional Transport Officer Amaresh Cheluv stated that a recommendation has also been sent to the transport authority seeking suspension of the vehicle’s registration certificate (RC) and the driver’s licence (DL) of Mohammed Saifan.

Transport authorities have reiterated that such actions are part of an intensified drive against noise pollution and unsafe vehicle modifications in the city. Additional Transport Commissioner (Enforcement) C. Mallikarjun warned that vehicles fitted with modified silencers and other illegal alterations will face strict consequences. “If such vehicles are reported by the public or noticed by our enforcement teams, their registration certificates and driving licences will be cancelled without hesitation,” he said.

The incident serves as a clear warning to vehicle owners and drivers that violations of motor vehicle laws, especially those causing public nuisance and safety risks, will invite stringent penalties in Bengaluru.