Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot announced on Wednesday that the Delhi government is considering a 50% reduction in fines for certain traffic violations under specific sections of the Motor Vehicles Act, provided that the dues are cleared within 90 days.

The proposal suggests that offenders could receive a 50% discount on their fines if they pay within 90 days for existing violations and within 30 days for new challans issued after the law is implemented.

Gahlot explained that this initiative aims to ease the burden on commuters, incentivize the prompt settlement of traffic fines, and reduce the caseload on courts and the transport department. The waiver will apply to offences such as allowing an unauthorized person to drive, driving without a valid license, dangerous driving, or driving while mentally or physically unfit.

"By rationalizing the compounding fees and delegating compounding powers, we are simplifying compliance with traffic regulations and strengthening enforcement efforts," Gahlot said.

The decision was prompted by the high number of pending challans from both the traffic and transport departments. Earlier this year, the Delhi government’s transport department informed the judiciary about the large number of unresolved challans. Notably, over 75% of the challans issued during the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) last year remain unpaid.

An official from the transport department noted that the number of challans issued increased significantly in 2023 compared to 2022, but many have not been fully processed.

Additionally, the Delhi government has authorized officers of the rank of head constable and above from the Delhi traffic police and the transport department, as well as assistant traffic inspectors (ATIs) from the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), to handle traffic offences under certain sections of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988. This move aims to enhance real-time enforcement and support the smooth operation of public transport systems.

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