Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Imposes Rs 13.87 Lakhs in Fines for Illegal Tinted Windows; 4.44 Crores Collected in 2023

Varad Bhatkhande

Pimpri Chinchwad, 20th February 2024: In Pimpri-Chinchwad, a significant issue has arisen with individuals tinting their car windows illegally. This practice is against the law, and the Traffic Branch of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate (PCPC) is taking stringent measures to address it. Recently, they showcased their efforts by sharing their actions on X (formerly Twitter).

On the official post from the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police’s official X Account, they conveyed, “Black is NOT one of our favourite colours, especially on car windows. Last month (January 2024), we imposed fines totalling Rs 13.87 lakhs on 1174 vehicles for applying dark black window film. If your four-wheeler has tinted glasses, please remove them yourself.” The post emphasizes their commitment to enforcing the law and urges individuals to comply with regulations by removing tinted window films from their vehicles.

The response to a recent post by the Pimpri Chinchwad Police on X was varied among normal citizens. While some individuals commended the efforts of the Pimpri Chinchwad Police in enforcing traffic rules and taking action against violators, others expressed criticism. Some critics raised concerns about perceived favouritism towards individuals in positions of power and alleged targeting of ordinary citizens.

According to the rules set by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in India, car windows must maintain a visibility of at least 70% for the front and rear glass and 50% for the side windows. Altering car windows by using dark films to reduce visibility below the specified limit is considered illegal.

Window tinting offers both advantages and disadvantages, depending on personal preferences, local regulations, and safety considerations. Some drawbacks of window tinting include potential legal issues, diminished nighttime visibility, hindered communication, challenges for emergency responders, interference with electronic devices, the risk of poor installation, and increased heat buildup within the vehicle. It is crucial for individuals contemplating window tinting to research local regulations, opt for professional installation, and carefully consider safety and visibility factors.

Despite legal restrictions, some individuals, particularly the younger demographic, may choose to tint car windows for aesthetic appeal, privacy, and enhanced comfort. Motivations for window tinting include reducing heat and glare, UV protection, adherence to cultural trends, and emulating professional installations. Adhering to local regulations is essential to ensure safety, and avoid legal penalties, as enforcement practices can vary.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Vivek Patil from the Pimpri Chinchwad Traffic Branch has reported that in the year 2023, actions were taken against 40,917 cars with tinted windows. Additionally, fines amounting to Rs 4 Crore 44 Lakhs were collected as penalties for these violations. Despite the imposition of substantial fines and consistent enforcement efforts by the Pimpri Chinchwad Police, individuals continue to use tinted windows.

Traffic congestion has emerged as a major issue for citizens in various areas of Pune District, including Pimpri Chinchwad. DCP Vivek Patil stated, “We are conducting various drives to maintain order and ensure the smooth flow of traffic. We are collaborating with other agencies to minimize traffic issues in the city. We have urged the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation to take strict action against encroachments, as many traffic problems arise due to them. Additionally, people parking vehicles haphazardly contribute to traffic issues, but we are regularly taking action against violators.” DCP Patil emphasized that the Pimpri Chinchwad Traffic Branch has a WhatsApp number for registering complaints, encouraging citizens to report any traffic-related problems they observe in the city. The police department assures prompt action upon receiving such complaints.

Pimpri-Chinchwad BRT: A Success or Failure?

The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) limits, featuring designated routes for buses with bus stands managed by Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML), was introduced to facilitate smoother traffic flow. However, the effectiveness of the BRT system is undermined by numerous violations and non-compliance by motorists. Despite restrictions prohibiting private vehicles in BRT routes, many individuals access these lanes to beat the traffic, posing risks of accidents and hindering bus operations. This is particularly seen in areas like Pimpri, Chinchwad, Pimple Saudagar, Wakad, Ravet, etc.

DCP Patil addressed this issue, stating, “We are conducting drives against them. We are regularly taking action against these violators and imposing fines to discourage repeated offences.” DCP Patil also revealed that in the past six months alone, 66,149 individuals were found violating BRT-related rules, resulting in fines totalling around 4 crores and 45 lakhs. The police department is actively enforcing measures to curb these violations and ensure the proper functioning of the BRT system.