Meghalaya Traffic Drive Penalises 2,500 Drivers, Collects ₹8 Lakh in Fines

In a sweeping enforcement operation, Meghalaya's Ri Bhoi District Police penalized 2,500 vehicle owners for a range of traffic violations, collecting over Rs 8 lakh in fines. The 12-hour drive, which commenced at 7 p.m. on Tuesday and concluded Wednesday morning, targeted common infractions amid rising road safety concerns in the district. Officials emphasized that the initiative was prompted by a recent surge in accidents, highlighting the need for stricter adherence to traffic norms in one of India's northeastern hill states.

The violations included failure to wear helmets or seat belts, operating vehicles without valid documents, lane indiscipline, overspeeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, and unauthorized vehicle modifications. These offenses not only endanger drivers and passengers but also contribute to the broader road fatality crisis in Meghalaya, where hilly terrain and heavy rainfall exacerbate risks. According to the National Crime Records Bureau's 2023 data, the state recorded over 300 road deaths, with two-wheelers involved in nearly 60% of cases—figures that underscore the urgency of such campaigns. Ri Bhoi, bordering Assam and known for its bustling highways, has seen a 15% uptick in mishaps this year, prompting the administration to intensify surveillance.

The operation involved mobile checkpoints and random inspections along key routes like the Shillong-Guwahati highway, where most violations were detected. Fines were imposed on the spot using electronic challans, streamlining the process and ensuring immediate compliance. "This drive is a proactive step to instill discipline on our roads," a senior police official stated, noting that the collected funds would support infrastructure improvements, such as signage and barriers. The effort aligns with the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2019, which doubled penalties for violations to deter reckless behavior and promote safer mobility.

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To sustain momentum, the Ri Bhoi administration has appealed to the public for vigilance, encouraging residents to report violations via WhatsApp at 6909300160 with photo or video evidence. This community-driven approach aims to foster a culture of accountability, potentially reducing accidents through collective responsibility. As Meghalaya invests in road safety education and enforcement, similar drives are planned for other districts, reflecting a statewide commitment to curbing the human and economic toll of traffic mishaps in the region.

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