Maharashtra: Cops to impose heavy fines to curb underage driving

Children who violate the rules will be prohibited from obtaining a driving license until the age of 25.

The state government of Maharashtra has made amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 in an effort to curb underage driving. The revised law now has provisions for a fine of up to Rs 25,000.

The Transport Commissioner has issued a notification, citing Section 199(A) of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988, which clearly states that individuals under 18 years of age are prohibited from driving a motor vehicle in public areas. However, it does allow the operation of a motorcycle with engine capacity not exceeding 50cc by individuals who are at least 16 years old.

As per the amendment, parents will be subject to a fine of Rs 25,000. Besides this, children who violate the rules will be prohibited from obtaining a driving license until the age of 25.

The notification also directs RTO officials to enforce the Act's provisions, including section 18, which prohibits individuals under the age of 20 from driving transport vehicles in public areas.

According to media reports, the state witnesses around 15,000 road accident fatalities annually. It is said that more than half of the accidents recorded in 2022 were caused by 2-wheeler riders.

Source: TOI