Bengaluru traffic police collected Rs 18.15 crore in just 14 days under the 50% fine discount scheme for pending traffic e-challans. The scheme came into effect on June 21, allowing motorists to clear outstanding fines by paying only half the prescribed penalty.
Scheme Details and Implementation
According to the Bengaluru traffic police, the discount scheme was introduced to encourage voluntary compliance and reduce the backlog of unpaid e-challans. Motorists with pending fines could avail a 50% reduction on the penalty amount if they paid within the specified period. The scheme applied to all pending e-challans issued before June 21.
Traffic police officials stated that the initiative saw an overwhelming response from the public. In the first 14 days, over 4.5 lakh e-challans were cleared, resulting in the collection of Rs 18.15 crore. This amount represents half of the original fine value, which would have been approximately Rs 36.3 crore if paid in full.
Impact on Traffic Violations
The scheme not only boosted revenue but also helped reduce the burden on the traffic police department, which had been grappling with a large number of unresolved cases. Officials noted that many motorists took advantage of the discount to clear old dues, including those from multiple violations.
“The response has been very encouraging. We have seen a significant number of people coming forward to pay their fines, which helps in streamlining the enforcement process,” said a senior traffic police officer.
Future Plans and Public Response
The Bengaluru traffic police are considering extending the scheme or introducing similar initiatives in the future to maintain compliance. However, no official decision has been announced yet. Motorists who missed the discount period will have to pay the full penalty amount for any pending e-challans.
Public reaction has been largely positive, with many commuters appreciating the opportunity to clear fines at a reduced cost. Some have called for more such amnesty schemes to address long-pending traffic violations.
