Three Traffic Violations & Driving License Will Be Suspended: Divisional Commissioner
People riding or driving recklessly on roads is sadly a common sight in India. This irresponsible behaviour often becomes the cause of accidents and inconvenience on the road. Cops in most cities ensure that such behaviour on the road is not entertained, and most of them follow the rules. However, there are people who refuse to do so and continue violating the rules. Pune Divisional Commissioner Chandrakant Pulkundwar announced strict actions against such offenders.
The Divisional Commissioner a few days ago ordered a strict citywide crackdown on traffic violations. He also instructed that the licence of the rider must be suspended if the rider or driver is found repeating the violations more than three times. If the violations continue, they can even seize the vehicle. The circular doesn’t mention for how long the licence will be suspended.
The instructions come after the major accident at Navale Bridge on November 13, where a speeding truck lost control and crashed into vehicles. As many as 8 people lost their lives in this accident. Speaking to the media, Pulkundwar said, “There is a need for strict enforcement. Every agency must act decisively to prevent accidents. Responsibility for road conditions lies with the agency managing it, and the District Magistrate has the authority to take necessary action.”
He also asked NGO SaveLife Foundation to conduct a fresh detailed study of accident-prone areas between the New Katraj Tunnel and Navale Bridge in coordination with all government departments.
PMRDA in the meeting also highlighted the urgent need to identify blackspots and the Collector emphasized the importance of establishing an integrated traffic control centre in Pune for improved monitoring and enforcement.
If you have been to Pune, you would have noticed that locals here who are on two-wheelers do not prefer wearing a riding helmet. In fact, there have even been protests from the public when the authorities tried to enforce the law.
What most of them don’t understand or do not want to understand is the fact that a riding helmet is the bare minimum that authorities are asking them to use, and that is for their own safety. Most of them come forward with excuses like they only ride inside the city at low speeds, so chances of accidents are next to zero. A safety helmet will save you from head injuries, which can be fatal if an accident happens. It is a precaution that authorities want you to take so that you don’t suffer.
Not just two-wheelers, you would also find people driving recklessly in Pune like in most Indian cities. People jump traffic signals, drive over the speed limit, do not wear seat belts, and so on. All these are safety hazards.
By nabbing offenders who are continuously breaking the law, the authorities would be setting an example for the rest. Out of fear of losing their driving licence, they may start following the rules and, after a point, this would become a part of their lifestyle.