The details of the new version of the 'Road Transport and Safety Bill' has been put in the public domain and at first look, it definitely seems to be a step in the right direction. The existing version is woefully behind time, not only because of its vintage but also because of the numerous changes that have come about in the country's transportation system and the connected infrastructure over the years.
Moreover, the fatalities that one hears about everyday on the Indian roads are sickening and what's more important is that a sizeable percentage of them could have been avoided through strict implementation of rules and a little care that could have been exercised by the motorists.
Let me visit a few of the suggested fines, because for an average Indian that's what that matters:-
(a) (i) Jump a traffic light
(ii) Drive on the wrong side Rs. 5,000/-
(iii) Obstruct emergency vehicles (A repeat offence would invite
(iv) Not wearing seat belt a fine of Rs. 10,000/- to Rs. 15,000/-)
and licence suspended for a refresher course).
(b) A child is killed by a speeding vehicle A fine of Rs.3 lakhs coupled with
3 months' imprisonment.
(c) Driving dangerously A fine of Rs. 15,000/- plus
licence withdrawal plus imprisonment.
(d) Driving without helmet A fine of Rs. 2,500/-
(e) Using a 'communication device' while Rs.4,000/- to Rs. 10,000/-
driving
Punishment to automobile dealers for releasing faulty vehicles, steps against drunken driving etc have been covered. Moreover, a central agency is gonna be set up, which will be responsible for the management of all the related issues at the macro as well as at the micro levels. The setting up of a Highway Traffic Regulation and Protection Force has also been mooted.
My take.
I hope that the following will also get sorted out by the introduction of the new legislation:-
(a) Any state registration will be acceptable throughout the country. I mean, one doesn't have to
go through the process of switching registration to the place of residence.
(b) Beacon cars are a thing of the past and all, irrespective of their professional positions, are
common citizens on the roads of the country and will attract the same penalties for the
traffic offences committed.
(c) Implementation with no fear or favour!
Tailpiece.
A definite step towards making driving on the Indian roads, a pleasure! Hope it comes soon - the earlier, the better!!
Moreover, the fatalities that one hears about everyday on the Indian roads are sickening and what's more important is that a sizeable percentage of them could have been avoided through strict implementation of rules and a little care that could have been exercised by the motorists.
Let me visit a few of the suggested fines, because for an average Indian that's what that matters:-
(a) (i) Jump a traffic light
(ii) Drive on the wrong side Rs. 5,000/-
(iii) Obstruct emergency vehicles (A repeat offence would invite
(iv) Not wearing seat belt a fine of Rs. 10,000/- to Rs. 15,000/-)
and licence suspended for a refresher course).
(b) A child is killed by a speeding vehicle A fine of Rs.3 lakhs coupled with
3 months' imprisonment.
(c) Driving dangerously A fine of Rs. 15,000/- plus
licence withdrawal plus imprisonment.
(d) Driving without helmet A fine of Rs. 2,500/-
(e) Using a 'communication device' while Rs.4,000/- to Rs. 10,000/-
driving
Punishment to automobile dealers for releasing faulty vehicles, steps against drunken driving etc have been covered. Moreover, a central agency is gonna be set up, which will be responsible for the management of all the related issues at the macro as well as at the micro levels. The setting up of a Highway Traffic Regulation and Protection Force has also been mooted.
My take.
I hope that the following will also get sorted out by the introduction of the new legislation:-
(a) Any state registration will be acceptable throughout the country. I mean, one doesn't have to
go through the process of switching registration to the place of residence.
(b) Beacon cars are a thing of the past and all, irrespective of their professional positions, are
common citizens on the roads of the country and will attract the same penalties for the
traffic offences committed.
(c) Implementation with no fear or favour!
Tailpiece.
A definite step towards making driving on the Indian roads, a pleasure! Hope it comes soon - the earlier, the better!!
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