65 Lakh Traffic Violations in Mumbai in 13 Months, Recovery of Rs369 Crore Fines Still Pending, Reveals RTI
Moneylife Digital Team 24 March 2025
The Mumbai traffic police have recorded a staggering 65.12 lakh or 6.52mn (million) traffic violations over the past 13 months, resulting in fines amounting to Rs526 crore. Despite stringent measures, only Rs157 crore has been collected so far, leaving massive fines worth Rs369 crore still unpaid. The data was revealed through a right to information (RTI) query filed by activist Anil Galgali.
 
The violations occurred between 1 January 2024 and 5 February 2025 across 41 traffic divisions and one multimedia department, covering 26 different categories of traffic offences. While action has been taken against millions of offenders, only 2.09mn (20.99 lakh) vehicle-owners have settled their fines, while 4.41mn (44.13 lakh) offenders are yet to pay up.
 
The data highlights that, despite continuous efforts by the traffic police, the sheer volume of violations and non-compliance remains a significant challenge. Among the many infractions, a notable instance involved the unauthorised use of flicker and amber lights, where 47 vehicle-owners were fined Rs23,500 collectively. However, only seven violators cleared their dues, amounting to a meagre Rs3,500.
 
Marine Drive emerged as a hotspot for flicker and amber light violations, where 32 vehicles were penalised. Unfortunately, only two offenders have paid fines totalling just Rs1,000.
 
RTI activist Galgali commended the Mumbai traffic police for their efforts but pointed out a critical lack of manpower hindering more effective enforcement. "The Mumbai traffic police have done a satisfactory job, but due to a shortage of officers and staff, they are unable to take action more effectively. A special recovery drive is necessary to collect the pending fines from offenders," he says.
 
Mr Galgali further urged the authorities to issue digital notices to defaulters and consider stricter measures, including the seizure of vehicles belonging to major offenders. He emphasised that prompt action is crucial to deter habitual violators and ensure better compliance with traffic regulations.
 
With unpaid fines continuing to pile up, the Mumbai traffic police face a daunting task in recovering the pending dues and enforcing compliance among millions of defaulters. The situation calls for innovative recovery strategies and an increase in manpower to address the issue effectively.
Comments
Meenal Mamdani
3 months ago
The state has a duty to make rules that improve safety for drivers and passengers. Seat belts in cars are similar to helmets required of two-wheeler, driver as well as passenger.
Similarly, the state has a duty to make sure that all possible safety rules have been adhered to during the manufacture of these vehicles.
iamshvam
3 months ago
Please write something detailing the uselessness of fines for not wearing helmets especially.Its pure extortion and the sign of an extractive state.
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