In a determined bid to curb increasing traffic violations, the Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) conducted an extensive five-hour special drive across the city on November 8. The operation, held between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., focused on major infractions such as wrong-way driving, riding without helmets, and overcrowding in school buses. This large-scale effort resulted in 1,757 traffic cases, with fines totalling ₹88.6 lakh, underscoring Bengaluru’s rising challenges in maintaining road safety and discipline amid the city’s rapid urbanisation. The high incidence of violations signals a pressing need for more sustainable and disciplined commuting practices.
A breakdown of the fines indicates that the most common infraction was driving in no-entry zones, with 739 cases registered, closely followed by 718 instances of helmetless riding. BTP’s proactive stance extended to school transportation, where they identified 351 cases of overcrowded school buses, including 327 violations for exceeding permissible child capacity. These incidents, which resulted in fines of ₹65,400, highlight the safety risks faced by young students and underline the need for stricter compliance with school bus safety regulations. The drive also exposed 24 drivers operating under the influence of alcohol, further stressing the city’s need for improved road safety awareness.
The operation unearthed notable cases, including the recovery of a stolen vehicle. While enforcing no-entry compliance on Old Airport Road, Assistant Sub-Inspector Kumarappa flagged down a motorbike for driving in the wrong direction. Upon investigation, the vehicle was found to be stolen, leading to the rider’s arrest. Such instances illustrate how routine traffic checks can bolster law enforcement efforts and contribute to reducing criminal activity in Bengaluru’s urban landscape, offering a dual benefit for public safety and order.
In addition to addressing regular vehicles, the BTP also launched a special crackdown on e-bikes, particularly those used by delivery personnel. Between November 4 and 7, the East Division Traffic Police registered 141 cases for violating one-way restrictions and 35 cases for riding on footpaths. This targeted approach towards e-bikes represents a sustainable effort to regulate emerging transportation modes within the city’s already congested urban infrastructure. As Bengaluru continues its drive toward becoming a safe and commuter-friendly city, ensuring a seamless integration of new mobility options while maintaining order remains crucial.
This aggressive traffic enforcement drive underscores the ongoing civic challenges posed by Bengaluru’s rapid urban expansion. While fines act as deterrents, achieving long-term traffic management will require a collective effort that combines regulation, public awareness, and improved urban planning to foster a safe and sustainable city. With its firm stand against infractions, the BTP has set a strong example of proactive governance, addressing immediate traffic issues while aiming for a future of sustainable and responsible urban mobility.
