Over 100 Driving Licenses Being Suspended In Pune For Repeat Traffic Rule Violations

Pune, 13th September 2023: The escalating traffic woes in the city have prompted authorities to take stringent actions against habitual traffic rule violators. To address the issue, driver’s licenses are being suspended for repeat offenders, with an average of 100 licenses suspended for durations ranging from 3 to 6 months this year alone. This measure has been implemented in accordance with a proposal put forth by the traffic police.

The traffic police compile a list of drivers who persistently flout traffic regulations, and this roster is subsequently forwarded to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) with a recommendation for the suspension of their licenses. At the conclusion of each month, the RTO reviews and acts upon the police’s proposal. The suspension period, ranging from three to six months, is determined based on the nature of the offenses reported by the police.

From January to June this year, the RTO suspended the licenses of 618 drivers for various violations, including driving under the influence of alcohol, excessive speeding, jumping red lights, failure to wear helmets, using mobile phones while driving, overloading vehicles with goods or passengers, among others. The RTO informs affected drivers of the suspension through an online notification. Any driver found operating a vehicle during the suspension period may face a fine of five thousand rupees and the possible impoundment of their vehicle.

The extent and duration of license suspension correspond to specific violations:

• 3 months: Offences such as overspeeding, signal violations, not wearing helmets, mobile phone use while driving, overloading vehicles with goods or passengers, and riding triple seat.
• 6 months: Suspension is imposed for drunk driving.

Once the suspension period expires, drivers can regain their licenses. The sole exception applies to drunk drivers, who are required to pass a vehicle fitness check and driving test before their licenses are reinstated.

Sanjeev Bhor, Regional Transport Officer-in-Charge, affirmed, “Drivers can resume driving after the license suspension period is over. The only exception to this is for drunk drivers. They have to pass the vehicle fitness check and driving test again. After that, they get a license again.”

Vijaykumar Magar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic Branch), stated, “The traffic police recommend to the RTO to suspend the license of drivers who repeatedly violate traffic rules. We send a list of such drivers every week, with about 100 to 150 names forwarded every month.”

This proactive measure aims to promote responsible driving and curb traffic violations in Pune, ultimately fostering safer road conditions for all residents.