Thiruvananthapuram: The cabinet meeting held by the chief minister has approved the decision to reduce the hefty fine fixed as per the Motor Vehicle Amendment Act. The government decided to reduce the fine after widespread criticism arose against the sudden hike. The notification in this regard will be issued soon.
According to the revised rates, the fine for not wearing helmet or seat belt will be reduced from Rs 1000 to Rs 500. The fine for drunken driving will continue at Rs 10,000. Fine for overload is reduced from Rs 20,000 to Rs 10,000.
Also the fine for small traffic violations was reduced from Rs 500 to Rs 250. Using mobile phones while driving will invite a fine of Rs 2000 and fine for overspeed is Rs 1500. Penalty for majority of the violations have been reduced to half.
The Motor Vehicle Amendment Act had come into force since September 1. The fine for various rule violations ranged from Rs 1000 to Rs 25,000. But many states like Gujarat reduced to half the huge amount following public protests.
