New MoRTH traffic rules: Pay fines in 45 days or face license loss
The consequences of ignoring traffic fines are set to become more serious
By Newsmeter Network
New Delhi: Motorists in India may soon need to rethink how they handle traffic violations.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed significant changes to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, aiming to make traffic enforcement faster, fairer, and stricter.
Under the new rules, fines must be paid within 45 days, down from the existing 90 days, or risk a host of restrictions that could affect the vehicle and the owner.
Delay isn’t an option
The consequences of ignoring traffic fines are set to become more serious. Vehicles with unpaid challans beyond the 45-day window may be seized by authorities. In cases where a vehicle has five or more unpaid challans, the driver’s license could be suspended.
This ensures that habitual violators face real consequences rather than brushing off penalties as a minor inconvenience.
Digital tools for faster enforcement
To streamline the system, MoRTH plans to rely heavily on digital monitoring and automation. Electronic notices for violations must be sent within three days, with physical notices following within 15 days. The goal is to make enforcement faster, transparent, and less dependent on manual processes.
Owner vs. Driver – Responsibility Redefined
Currently, traffic fines are issued in the vehicle owner’s name. The new rules clarify that if the owner was not driving at the time, the actual driver will bear responsibility, bringing accountability closer to reality.
Your voice counts
MoRTH has invited public feedback on the draft rules. Suggestions or objections can be sent to the Additional Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, New Delhi, or emailed to comments-morth@gov.in.
The Road Ahead
With these proposed changes, the government aims to create a culture of compliance and make Indian roads safer. For motorists, it’s a reminder that every traffic violation carries not just a fine, but potential long-term consequences for their vehicle and driving privileges, Road Safety experts said.
