Bengaluru Traffic Violations May Attract Higher Fines Under New Proposal

Bengaluru motorists could face significantly higher fines for traffic violations if a proposal discussed by the state government is approved. The proposed changes are aimed at improving traffic discipline and addressing repeated violations across the city.

The issue was discussed during a joint meeting involving the Transport Department and Home Department. Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh and Home Minister Priyank Kharge led the meeting, where officials examined ways to strengthen enforcement and deal with traffic related problems in Bengaluru.

Under the proposal, several common violations could attract fines that are considerably higher than the existing amounts. The list includes parking vehicles on footpaths, driving against the permitted direction on one way roads, driving on footpaths, unauthorised parking, violating no parking restrictions and jumping traffic signals.

The proposed changes would also cover motorists who obstruct the smooth movement of traffic. Authorities are considering higher penalties for such violations as part of efforts to improve road discipline and reduce congestion.

For several of these offences, the current fine for a first violation is Rs 500, while repeat violations attract Rs 1000. Under the proposal discussed in the meeting, the penalty could rise to Rs 3000 for a first violation and Rs 5000 if the offence is repeated.

The proposed higher fines would apply to footpath parking, wrong way driving on one way roads, driving on footpaths, unauthorised parking, no parking violations, signal jumping and actions that obstruct traffic movement.

Dangerous driving is another area where the government is considering a substantial increase in penalties. The proposed amount would depend on the type of vehicle involved.

For dangerous driving involving a two wheeler, the current first offence penalty of Rs 1500 could be increased to Rs 3000. For light motor vehicles, the proposed fine could rise from the existing Rs 3000 to Rs 5000.

The penalty could be even higher for other and heavy vehicles. The proposal under discussion suggests increasing the first offence fine from Rs 5000 to Rs 10000.

The government is considering the changes against the backdrop of persistent traffic difficulties in Bengaluru. Officials have been examining various measures to improve compliance with traffic rules, particularly for violations that affect pedestrians, road users and the free movement of vehicles.

Footpath parking and driving on footpaths are among the violations that can create difficulties for pedestrians and reduce the usable space available on busy roads. Similarly, wrong way driving and signal jumping can create additional risks at intersections and congested stretches.

Although the proposed fines have been discussed at the joint meeting, motorists should note that the revised amounts have not yet been finalised. The government has not taken a final decision on implementing the proposed penalty structure.

If approved, the changes would represent a substantial increase for several commonly reported traffic violations. The final decision is expected to determine which penalties will be revised and when the new rates, if approved, would come into effect.

For now, the proposal remains under consideration, while the departments continue discussions on stronger traffic enforcement measures for Bengaluru.