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Starting in June 2024, India has implemented several significant changes to its traffic and driving license regulations, aimed at improving road safety and streamlining administrative processes.
New Traffic Rules and Penalties
1. Enhanced Penalties for Violations:
– Speeding: Fines for driving above the speed limit can go up to ₹1,000.
– Driving Under Influence: The penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is now ₹10,000.
– Using Mobile Phones: Drivers caught using mobile phones while driving can be fined up to ₹1,000.
2. Offenses Related to Vehicle Conditions and Usage:
– Pollution Control: Vehicles not adhering to pollution norms face fines up to ₹500 for smoky exhaust and ₹100 for using pressure horns in silence zones.
– Vehicle Modifications: Unauthorized modifications, including the use of tinted glasses or improper number plates, can result in fines.
3. Commercial Vehicle Regulations:
– Overloading: Transport vehicles caught with loads exceeding the permissible weight are fined ₹2,000 plus ₹1,000 for each additional ton.
– Transporting Hazardous Goods: Inadequate safety measures when transporting hazardous goods can lead to imprisonment and/or a fine of ₹3,000.
Changes to Driving License Regulations
1. Licensing Process Overhaul:
– No Mandatory RTO Visit: The new rules eliminate the need for a driving test at the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Instead, accredited private driver training centers are now authorized to issue licenses upon successful completion of training.
– Online Application: The entire application process for obtaining or renewing a driver’s license can now be completed online via the government portal [parivahan.gov.in](https://parivahan.gov.in), reducing the need for physical visits to the RTO.
2. New Requirements for Training Centers:
– Facilities and Qualifications: Training centers must have a minimum of one acre (two acres for four-wheelers), proper testing facilities, and trainers with at least five years of driving experience and basic IT and biometric knowledge.
– Training Structure: The training for light vehicles must be completed in less than four weeks, while heavy vehicle training spans six weeks.
3. Driving License Categories:
– Personal Vehicles: Includes MC 50CC (for bikes with engines up to 55cc), MC EX50CC (for vehicles with gear and over 50cc), and LMV-NT (light motor vehicles for non-transport use).
– Commercial Vehicles: Covers categories like HMV (Heavy Motor Vehicles), HGMV (Heavy Goods Motor Vehicles), and trailer.
Benefits and Impact
These changes are designed to reduce administrative burdens, improve training quality, and ensure that drivers are better prepared before hitting the road. By leveraging technology and private sector participation, the government aims to enhance efficiency and safety in the licensing process and road traffic.