Delhi Government to Waive 50% Fine on Traffic Challans But There is a Catch

The Delhi government has introduced a new initiative offering a 50% waiver on traffic challans, but there’s a key condition attached. To encourage citizens to clear their pending fines, Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot has announced that violators can avail of the discount only if they settle their dues within a 90-day window. According to Gahlot, the traffic challan amounts will be lowered under certain sections of the Motor Vehicles Act. The proposal, pending approval from Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, aims to reduce the backlog of unpaid traffic fines in the capital city. However, the limited timeframe adds urgency, requiring individuals to act quickly if they wish to benefit. The move is part of a broader push to improve compliance with traffic regulations while offering an incentive for timely payments. While this initiative brings financial relief to many, those who miss the deadline will still be liable for the full fine, making this a time-sensitive offer that drivers need to take advantage of swiftly.

Also Read: New GPS-based Toll Collection System Implemented, Here How it Works

Traffic Challan Discount Scheme: Key Details

As per the proposal, up to 50% of the traffic fines will be waived for existing violations if the offender settles the fine within three months. For new offences, the time limit is 30 days after the rule takes effect. The initiative aims to minimise lengthy legal disputes. Gahlot stated, 'By rationalising the compounding fees and delegating compounding powers, we are making it easier for citizens to comply with traffic regulations while enhancing enforcement efforts. This will ensure smoother public transportation and help keep our roads safer and more organised.'

Only specific traffic violations will qualify for reductions under this scheme. According to the proposal, offences eligible for discounts include driving without a valid licence, dangerous or reckless driving, participating in races on public roads without permission, driving an uninsured vehicle, driving while mentally or physically impaired, and if an unauthorised person is driving. Therefore, not all types of infractions will receive this benefit.

Also Read: PM E-Drive Scheme with Rs 10,900 Crore Outlay Launched in India, Replaces FAME II

New GPS-based Toll Collection System Introduced

Another important development is that the Indian government has announced a revised set of rules for the highway toll collection system. The new system uses a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) to track vehicle movements. It will allow them to go up to 20 km on national highways without paying any charges. However, this setup excludes vehicles with a National Permit. The new regulations state that drivers, owners, or anyone in charge of vehicles will now be charged a "zero user fee" for travels up to 20 km in either direction on toll highways. After the first 20 km, the person will be charged for every extra km, therefore paying for the actual distance covered. Tunnels, permanent bridges, bypasses, and national highways will all be covered under this rule. 

For toll collection, the new GNSS device will make use of both the current FASTag systems and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR). The technology in cars to connect the GNSS for toll fee collecting will be a non-transferable, permanently installed GNSS device.