Gurgaon traffic police impounded an autorickshaw on Wednesday after discovering 18 pending challans against the vehicle, amounting to a total fine of Rs 63,500. The violations included serious offenses such as drunken driving and wrong-side driving.
Drive Against Long-Pending Challans
The action was taken as part of a special enforcement drive conducted under Section 167(8) of the Motor Vehicles Act, which targets vehicles with unpaid challans pending for more than 90 days. Police officials stated that the autorickshaw was intercepted near Agrasen Chowk by zonal officer SI Sudesh, constable Manjeet, and other traffic personnel during routine checking.
“Officials found 18 unpaid challans under various provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. Since the challans had remained unpaid for more than 90 days, the vehicle was impounded and parked at the designated impound lot near Rajiv Chowk,” an officer said.
Details of Violations
The pending challans included violations such as wrong-side driving, drunken driving, driving without a uniform, lack of insurance, absence of a pollution under control (PUC) certificate, and violation of road markings. Each of these offenses carries significant penalties under the law.
“Motorists should follow traffic rules, keep vehicle documents valid, and clear pending challans on time. Action against habitual violators will continue as part of the enforcement campaign,” said DCP (traffic) Prateek Gahlot.
Penalties for Major Offenses
Officials explained that wrong-side driving attracts a fine of Rs 500 for the first offense and higher penalties for repeated violations. In serious cases, especially on highways, an FIR may also be registered. For drunken driving, the driver’s license can be suspended, and the case is decided by the court, which may impose a fine of up to Rs 15,000 or imprisonment of up to six months. Driving without a valid PUC certificate can attract penalties ranging from Rs 4,000 to Rs 10,000.
The impoundment serves as a stern warning to habitual violators, emphasizing the importance of adhering to traffic regulations and promptly settling fines to avoid such enforcement actions.
