Massive Traffic Crackdown on Mumbai Coastal Road Nets 62,000 Challans
In a sweeping enforcement drive, Mumbai traffic police have issued a staggering 62,000 traffic challans on the city's Coastal Road over a four-month period. The crackdown, which spanned from September 2025 to mid-January 2026, targeted speeding and bus lane violations on the high-speed 10-kilometer corridor connecting Marine Drive to Worli.
Surge in Penalties After Full Opening
The surge in penalties followed the complete opening of the Coastal Road's carriageways, prompting authorities to implement tighter enforcement measures. Traffic officials reported that the majority of offences involved motorists exceeding speed limits and illegally driving in the designated bus lane, both of which pose significant safety risks on this crucial urban artery.
Month-Wise Breakdown of Violations
A detailed month-wise analysis reveals the intensity of the enforcement action:
- September 8–30, 2025: 16,852 challans issued
- October 2025: 19,916 challans (highest monthly count)
- November 2025: 12,087 challans
- December 2025: 9,909 challans
- January 1–12, 2026: 3,225 challans
Although spread across five calendar months, officials clarified that these numbers represent approximately four full months of active enforcement operations.
Advanced Technology Drives Enforcement
The enforcement campaign has been significantly bolstered by Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras installed along the Coastal Road. These sophisticated systems automatically capture and record vehicle registration details of offenders, with particular effectiveness in detecting vehicles breaching speed limits. The technology has dramatically improved enforcement accuracy and efficiency.
Stricter Legal Consequences Implemented
In a notable escalation of penalties, traffic police have begun registering First Information Reports (FIRs) in cases involving excessively high speeds and reckless driving. Officials have warned that repeated violations will invite stricter legal consequences beyond monetary penalties, marking a significant shift in enforcement strategy.
Substantial Fines for Violations
The financial penalties for Coastal Road violations are substantial:
- Racing or repeat speed violations: Fines up to Rs 10,000
- First-time racing offences: Rs 5,000
- Regular speeding penalties:
- Heavy vehicles: Rs 4,000
- Light motor vehicles: Rs 2,000
- Two- and three-wheelers: Rs 1,000
Interceptor Vehicles Deployed Against Supercar Racing
In response to specific complaints about late-night racing by luxury supercars—including models from Lamborghini and Ferrari—traffic police will station two interceptor vehicles on the Coastal Road. These mobile enforcement units aim to curb high-speed violations until full ANPR camera coverage is achieved across the entire corridor.
Residential Concerns Over Noise Pollution
Residents of Worli, Nepean Sea Road, and Breach Candy have raised serious concerns about midnight racing and loud exhausts disturbing designated silence zones. The proximity of Breach Candy Hospital to the Coastal Road has particularly intensified worries over noise pollution impacts on patient care and residential tranquility.
Established Speed Limits and Enforcement
Authorities have established clear speed limits for the Coastal Road:
- Straight stretches: 80 kmph
- Inside tunnels: 60 kmph
- At turns: 40 kmph
Police have reiterated that driving beyond these limits will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Motorcycle Ban and Increased Vigilance
Despite a clear prohibition, motorcycles continue to violate the ban on using the Coastal Road. Authorities have assured increased night patrolling and stricter enforcement measures to restore safety and discipline on Mumbai's flagship coastal corridor, with particular focus on eliminating unauthorized two-wheeler access.
