Mumbai, July 3: The Maharashtra government has proposed linking traffic violators' bank accounts directly to e-challans to recover a staggering INR 2,429 crore in fines. This move aims to streamline penalty recovery and ensure stricter adherence to traffic laws across the state. If approved, the initiative could significantly impact how traffic violations are managed and paid, potentially reducing evasion and enhancing accountability among traffic violators in the state. The proposal awaits approval from the central government, highlighting efforts to leverage technology for efficient governance and law enforcement in Maharashtra.

According to a report by the Hindustan Times, since the introduction of e-challans in January 2019, the state has struggled to recover a substantial portion of the penalties imposed for various traffic violations such as over-speeding, lane-cutting, and signal violations. Despite efforts by the state transport department and traffic police, only INR 1,339 crore, or 35 per cent of the total fines, have been collected over the past five years from approximately 42.89 million motorists. This low recovery rate underscores the challenges faced in enforcement and the timely payment of fines by violators. CM Eknath Shinde-Led MahaYuti Government Completes Two Years in Office, Braces for Maharashtra Assembly Elections.

Maharashtra Govt Seeks Centre’s Nod To Link E Challans

What Does the Maharashtra Government's Proposal Seek?

E-challans have been pivotal in enforcing traffic regulations, targeting violations such as over-speeding, lane-cutting, and signal jumping through the use of handheld devices and CCTV networks. This initiative aims to streamline the recovery of INR 2,429 crore in unpaid fines by integrating e-challans with accounts used for Fastag and annual motor insurance payments, as reported by Mumbai Live. Maharashtra Budget 2024: Petrol To Be Cheaper by 65 Paise, Diesel by Rs 2.60 in Mumbai Region.

By automating fine deductions during routine transactions, such as Fastag recharges or insurance renewals, the proposal aims to improve compliance with traffic regulations and ensure more effective enforcement of penalties across the state. This integration requires approval under central banking regulations, highlighting the state's efforts to leverage digital payment systems for efficient fine collection and enhanced road safety measures. Once approved, the initiative is expected to bolster revenue collection efforts significantly and encourage greater compliance with traffic regulations among motorists.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 03, 2024 09:38 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).