The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is advancing an amendment to the Motor Vehicle Act. This proposed change will require state governments to seek approval from national highway authorities before altering the maximum speed limits on any stretch of National Highways (NH) under their jurisdiction.
Currently, the general speed limit for vehicles on national highways is set at 100 kmph, while expressways permit speeds up to 120 kmph. However, individual states have the authority to adjust these limits based on local conditions, which has occasionally led to inconsistencies and confusion among drivers. This regulatory inconsistency has been a source of frustration and potential corruption within local law enforcement agencies.
The proposed amendment seeks to address these issues by mandating that state authorities consult regional officers from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL), and the Ministry of Road Transport before implementing any changes to speed limits. This measure is expected to streamline speed limit regulations, reduce confusion, and curtail opportunities for corrupt practices.
Additionally, the ministry is contemplating an increase in penalties for traffic violations involving school buses. This proposal aims to enhance accountability among drivers and educational institutions. The suggested amendment includes provisions to double the fines for a range of traffic offences committed by school buses, including violations related to red lights, speeding, and inadequate vehicle certification.
This move follows a tragic incident in April, where a school bus accident in Narnaul, Haryana, resulted in the deaths of six students. The accident, attributed to the driver’s intoxication, underscored the urgent need for stricter regulations to ensure the safety of children travelling to and from educational institutions.
The proposed changes to the Motor Vehicle Act reflect the government’s commitment to improving road safety and regulatory consistency. By enforcing these new requirements, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways aims to create a safer and more uniform driving environment across the country.
