Odisha Takes Strict Action Against Repeat Traffic Offenders
In an unprecedented move, the Odisha transport department has suspended the registration of 150 vehicles whose owners were identified as habitual traffic violators. This marks the first time such stringent action has been taken against vehicles accumulating between 50 and 350 challans each.
Legal Framework and Implementation
The crackdown has been executed under Section 167 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, which permits blacklisting vehicles repeatedly involved in traffic violations and prohibiting their operation on public roads. A senior transport department official revealed that they have identified approximately 34,000 vehicles across the state with repeated violations under the Motor Vehicles Act, 2019.
The initial phase of this campaign has targeted 150 vehicles including commercial vehicles, private cars, and two-wheelers. These vehicles have been officially blacklisted, and their registration certificates suspended indefinitely. Officials emphasized that such vehicles represent serious safety hazards for both their drivers and other road users.
Notification Process and Settlement Options
All offenders received show-cause notices through messages sent to their registered mobile numbers, directing them to clear pending e-challans. Despite the availability of the one-time settlement (OTS) scheme until March 19, 2026, registrations were suspended immediately due to the grave danger these vehicles pose to public safety.
According to transport officials, payment of outstanding fines within the stipulated deadline will enable vehicle owners to seek reinstatement of their registrations. However, during the suspension period, these vehicles are strictly prohibited from plying on roads. Any violation of this ban will result in permanent cancellation of registration and the filing of a First Information Report (FIR).
Zero Tolerance Policy Against Habitual Violators
State Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur declared that the department maintains zero tolerance for traffic violations. He emphasized that the law contains stringent provisions against repeat offenders, and the suspension of registrations will continue for other habitual violators identified through the system.
Police officers explained that habitual offenders are tracked through the comprehensive e-challan database. Whenever a vehicle receives a penalty, its details are systematically stored, enabling the system to quickly flag repeat offences associated with the same registration number.
This systematic approach ensures that chronic traffic violators cannot escape detection and face appropriate consequences for their repeated infractions, making Odisha's roads safer for all citizens.
