Mumbai’s traffic situation is worsening day by day. As there are huge bottlenecks at several places daily, especially during peak hours, many people end up breaking traffic norms. From January 1, 2024, to February 5, 2025, over 65.12 lakh violations were recorded. The fine amount that should be recovered from these violations goes up to Rs 526 crore. So far, the authorities have collected only Rs 157 crore. Offenders are yet to pay the Rs 369 crore fine.
As per the data that was obtained through an RTI query by activist Anil Galgali, traffic rules are frequently violated across the city by the citizens, and the enforcement is spread across 41 traffic divisions and one multimedia department.
The authorities have issued fines under 26 different norms of traffic violations. Only 20.99 lakh offenders paid the fines, while 44.13 lakh violators have not paid the fines imposed on them for violation of traffic rules.
One of the traffic rules violation categories is using unauthorised flicker and amber lights. 47 vehicles were using these lights and were fined by the Mumbai traffic police. The fine amount that should be collected from these 47 vehicles amounts to Rs 23,500. Out of 47 only 7 paid the penalty, and the amount collected stands at Rs 3,500. This violation was mainly reported in the Marine Drive area of Mumbai.
As Mumbaikars face huge traffic snarls daily, they continue with reckless driving, breaking signals, not wearing seatbelts and helmets, illegal parking, and many more. As there is a shortage of manpower in the Mumbai Traffic Police Department, the defaulters can easily avoid paying fines.
Also Read: India’s New 2025 Traffic Laws: Hefty Fines and Longer Jail Time For All Offenders
This highlights the need for stringent laws to curb traffic violations. The government of India is now implementing stricter traffic laws. As per the new traffic rules for 2025, the government is increasing the fine amount by 10 times. These measures are being taken by the government to enhance road safety and reduce accidents. As India is witnessing a spike in reckless driving, drunk driving, and violations of other traffic laws, the government intends to impose stricter traffic rules.
The government implemented these new laws with increased fines in India from March 1, 2025. This new law allows the government to not only increase the fine amount but also include jail time for serious offenses.