Kathmandu, May 14

New penalty structure for breach of traffic rules came into force across the country from today. The government had increased the fine for violation of traffic rules through an amendment to Section 164 of the Motor Vehicle and Transport Management Act, 1993.

As per the notification of amendment published in Nepal Gazette, the new provisions of fine came into effect from today. According to the Metropolitan Traffic Police Division, any person caught violating traffic rules will be punished with a fine of minimum Rs 500 and maximum Rs 1,500. Earlier, the fine for traffic rule violation was Rs 25 to Rs 200.

The maximum fine imposed by traffic police so far was Rs 1,000 for drink-driving. Traffic police said the revised structure would proved a deterrent. “It was highly essential to tighten the noose around the offenders-on-the-road. Only a hefty fine will ensure that people will avoid breaking the rules and think twice before violating the law, as most of the motorists and riders flout the rules intentionally,” said an official.

The amendment to the law for fine increment also aims to reduce road accidents and bring traffic sense among road users. “When there is a petty fine, motorists do not mind flouting the rules,” he said.