Frequent traffic violations could soon lead to suspension of driving licence in Hyderabad, as a system of penalty points has been officially introduced on the city's roads.
Touted as a unique initiative, the system was devised by the Hyderabad Traffic Police (HTP) and launched on 31 July.
The police have released a list of violations under the Motor Vehicles Act, and corresponding points for each violation – your license will be suspended if you record 12 points within 24 months.
The rule will be in place under all three commissionerates of the city – Hyderabad, Cyberabad and Rachakonda. Driving after your license is suspended will lead to imprisonment, officials said.
Addressing reporters, officials also said that the new system would focus on prosecuting the drivers, rather than the present one, which takes action against the vehicle’s owner.
“Traffic offenders who pose a threat to fellow motorists' safety will get penalty points against their driver's licence. Drunk drivers, chain snatchers, accused involved in fatal road mishaps will get maximum penalty points,” Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) V Ravinder told reporters.
We will use some software applications to identify drivers even in e-challans. We will intensify special drives to book spot challans. As a safety measure, we have started conducting impromptu drunk driving tests at specific areas right from 7 pm.DCP (Traffic) AV Ranganath
According to reports, people can also remove three penalty points from under their name, by undergoing a training course or safety programme from an institution recognised by the Telangana Transport department.
A centralised database of offences and penalty points will also be maintained to keep track of repeat offenders and to mete out strict punishment.
When the Penalty Point System was announced, an official statement from the commissioner of police, Hyderabad said, “The Penalty Point System is being introduced for the first time in India to inculcate self-discipline among commuters with a view to transform Hyderabad city into a safe place for commuting and a delightful place for driving.”
(This story was first published on The News Minute and has been republished with permission.)
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