65 Lakh Traffic Violations in Mumbai: ₹369 Crore in Fines Still Unpaid | Representational Image
Mumbai: The breakdown of traffic discipline in Mumbai can be gauged from the fact that the traffic police have taken action against as many as 65,12,846 vehicle owners for violating different traffic rules over the past 13 months (from January 1, 2024, to February 5, 2025).
According to information culled by Right to Information (RTI) activist Anil Galgali, a total fine of Rs 526 crore was imposed, out of which only Rs 157 crore has been collected, leaving Rs 369 crore still pending.
According to the data provided by the Mumbai Traffic Police, 41 traffic divisions and 1 multimedia department have taken action under 26 different categories of traffic violations. However, only 20,99,396 vehicle owners have paid their fines, while 44,13,450 have not yet cleared their dues.
Ramesh Kumar, a motorist who drives daily to south Mumbai from his home in Andheri, said: “Driving in Mumbai has become a nightmare. Two wheeler riders overtake you from the left, cut lanes and speed as if there is no tomorrow.”
Another motorist Jairam Dagli said “Earlier the fear of the traffic policeman was there. Now that has vanished largely because people think that by flashing a Rs 100 note they can escape the law.” A cab driver Dashrath Singh said “Even the fear of the cameras is not there. People speed and jump signals with impunity.”
A total of 47 vehicle owners were fined for using unauthorized flicker and amber lights, with penalties amounting to Rs 23,500. However, only seven violators have paid Rs 3,500. The highest number of violations were recorded in Marine Drive, where 32 vehicles were penalized, but only two vehicle owners have paid Rs 1,000 in fines.
Galgali stated, “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 has suggested that the police issue digital notices to defaulting vehicle owners and implement stricter measures, including vehicle seizure, for major defaulters.
65 Lakh Traffic Violations in Mumbai in 13 Months
◆ fine of Rs 526 crore was imposed,
◆ 44 Lakh Offenders Yet to Pay Fines
◆ Rs 369 Crore Pending
