Would Increasing Traffic Violation Fines Significantly Reduce Offenses in India?

Several states in India have expressed hesitancy about implementing new fines for traffic violations, citing concerns about placing an undue burden on offenders. While the intention behind punishment, particularly in the form of fines, is deterrence, the effectiveness of such measures lies not merely in the quantum of the penalty but in the certainty of enforcement.

The Certainty of Punishment Matters

Take the example of wearing helmets in Mumbai (formerly Bombay). In the 1970s, when helmet wearing was not legally mandatory, the Admiral (now the highest-ranking naval officer) implemented strict penalties for non-compliance. First and second offenses resulted in the impoundment of a bike for one and three months, respectively. The third offense faced a court-martial for repeated disobedience. The statistical fear of such repercussions, rather than the specific amount of the fine, led to a significant reduction in violations. Even a small fine of Rs. 1000 was underestimated; when increased, it became a significant deterrent to non-compliance.

Significant Impact in One Week

The recent increase in fines has already had a notable impact. According to recent news, over 1.25 lakh vehicles have undergone pollution checks between September 1 and 3, and more than 84,000 PUC (pollution under check) certificates have been issued. These numbers represent almost three times the previous figures. This marked improvement suggests that stricter measures can indeed bring about significant changes in a short period.

It is reasonable to expect that similar results will be seen in other areas of traffic enforcement. A rise in the imposition of fines is expected to have a profound effect, not just in the immediate aftermath but over the long term. This phenomenon has already set a precedent as the attitude toward traffic rules has shifted, with a newfound respect for fines leading to reduced traffic violations.

Long-term Effects of Increased Fines

Imagine the potential outcomes in the coming months. Over one month, one year, or even more, the effects of such an increase could be substantial. The fear of losing a high-amount fine is already changing behavior, and this trend is likely to continue, leading to a more disciplined approach to traffic compliance.

Share your thoughts and views in the comments section below. Do you think the increased fines will have a lasting impact on reducing traffic offenses in India? What are your concerns about the implementation of such measures?