Pune: Pimpri Chinchwad Police ‘Recover’ Rs 74.67 Crores in Fines from Unruly Drivers in 2024

Reported by Varad Bhatkhande

Pimpri Chinchwad, 7th January 2025: Pimpri Chinchwad Police have sent a stern message to unruly and undisciplined motorists in their jurisdiction. Through their actions last year, they have demonstrated that breaking traffic rules has dire consequences. In 2024, a total of Rs 74.67 crores was collected in fines, which is Rs 17.62 crores more than the previous year of 2023. While fines and actions increased, the rate of accidents and the number of deaths in road accidents were reduced.

According to information provided by the Traffic Branch of Pimpri Chinchwad Police, Rs 74,67,55,650 in fines were collected from 6,42,145 cases. Compared to last year, both cases and fines have increased. In 2023, Rs 50,05,26,150 were collected from 6,18,123 cases, showing a difference of 24,022 cases and Rs 17.62 crores in fines.

The police also made good progress in preventing road accidents. Compared to 370 deaths in 2023, the number was reduced by 26, with 344 deaths in road accidents throughout the last year. Additionally, 13,694 cases of non-licensed drivers were recorded, which is 8,081 more than the previous year.

Here’s a detailed comparison of all the traffic actions taken last year:

Action (2023 – 2024 – Difference):

– Drunk and Drive: 440 – 4,154 – 3,714

– Signal Jumping: 27,410 – 39,561 – 12,151

– Number Plate Cases: 39,663 – 53,014 – 13,351

– Mobile Talking: 13,822 – 16,698 – 2,876

– Triple Seat: 42,369 – 46,818 – 4,449

– Actions on Bus: 18,337 – 20,885 – 2,548

– Actions on Rickshaw: 21,016 – 27,544 – 6,528

– Traffic Disruption: 1,07,447 – 1,40,464 – 33,017

Pimpri Chinchwad Police utilised personnel and CCTV cameras to carry out this action. The Traffic Branch used automated systems with cameras and sensors to detect violations. Officers issued e-challans or spot fines. They employed on-site enforcement, tracked repeat offenders, and used interceptor vehicles for mobile surveillance. Violators can pay fines online or at designated centres.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Bapu Bangar, in charge of the Pimpri Chinchwad Traffic Branch, told Punekar News, “The performance by the traffic branch personnel was truly commendable. We took more actions than in previous years. Fines were collected, and strong measures were taken against undisciplined motorists. Additionally, we were able to reduce accident rates and the resulting fatalities. We urge everyone to follow traffic rules and drive responsibly and safely.”

Pending Crores in Fines Recovered

This year, pending traffic cases rose to 2.26 lakh, compared to last year’s 1.77 lakh. Rs 18.16 crore worth of pending fines were recovered this year, up from last year’s tally of Rs 14.02 crore, showing an increase of Rs 4.14 crore. Pending cases and penalties in the traffic branch refer to unpaid fines for traffic violations. They accumulate due to a lack of enforcement mechanisms, motorists’ negligence, or disputes over challans. This backlog can strain the traffic management system; however, Pimpri Chinchwad Police are working towards collecting pending fines and resolving pending cases.

Heavy Vehicles Targeted

Heavy vehicles were targeted in Pimpri Chinchwad, with fines worth Rs 4.22 crore collected in 36,726 cases. In 2023, the recovered fine was Rs 2.75 crore in 32,725 cases. Significant action was also taken against buses. Cities often impose time restrictions, especially during peak hours, leading to action against heavy vehicles. Other reasons for fines include unauthorised parking, rule-breaking, overloading, and various violations.