For uninsured autos, road minister moots steep hike in penalties

NEW DELHI: In a bid to handle the longstanding confusion over velocity limits, the road transport ministry has proposed that the Centre set the velocity limits for NHs and expressways whereas states can achieve this for state highways and different roads. In a slew of amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act, the ministry has additionally proposed making uninsured autos pay 3 times the insurance coverage premium for plying on roads and 5 instances the premium for a repeat offence.Further, the ministry has proposed setting timelines for states to undertake pointers issued by the Centre for registration and regulation of car aggregators, and approve organising of automated testing stations. It has circulated the proposed amendments to different ministries for his or her suggestions, earlier than it seeks Cabinet approval for a similar.Under the present system, whereas the Centre formally units most velocity limits for NHs and expressways, states normally impose decrease limits for these highways. This lack of uniformity usually results in drivers being penalised for exceeding limits set by states for NHs and expressways. This has additionally turn into a breeding floor for corruption involving regulation enforcement companies.For uninsured autos, the ministry has proposed a steep hike in penalties. Instead of the present penalty of Rs 2,000 for a primary offence and Rs 4,000 for repeat offences with as much as three months’ imprisonment, the modification proposes such violators be required to pay 3 times the bottom insurance coverage premium for a primary offence and 5 instances for repeat violations. The transfer is aimed toward checking the rise in variety of autos plying with out legitimate insurance coverage and making certain higher compliance.The draft amendments suggest stricter norms for renewal of driving licences. A compulsory driving check can be required for these convicted of offences equivalent to overspeeding and drunk driving. Additionally, these above the age of 55 might want to bear a driving check at time of licence renewal.