India Proposes Point-Based Driving License System to Penalize Traffic Violations
In a significant move to enhance road safety, the Indian government is developing a new system that could make it easier to penalize unsafe driving. A proposal has been put forward to introduce a point-based mechanism for driving licenses, which would target motorists who repeatedly violate traffic rules with potential suspension or even cancellation of their licenses.
Minister Gadkari Announces Initiative at Road Safety Conclave
Speaking at the National Conclave on Road Safety organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in New Delhi, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari detailed the proposed system. He emphasized that the primary goal is to encourage responsible driving and substantially reduce the alarming number of road accidents across the country. Gadkari stressed that people's lives are of utmost importance, prompting the government to take multiple proactive steps to improve road safety nationwide.
Alarming Road Accident Statistics Highlight Urgency
According to the minister, India records nearly 500,000 road accidents annually, resulting in approximately 180,000 deaths, as reported by PTI. Many of these fatalities are directly linked to dangerous driving practices, including using mobile phones while driving, overspeeding, driving on the wrong side, and drunken driving. Despite existing higher penalties for traffic violations, enforcement remains a significant challenge, with many drivers showing little fear or respect for traffic laws.
How the New Point System Will Operate
Under the proposed graded point system, drivers would begin with a predetermined number of points on their license. Points would be deducted for each traffic offence committed. Once all points are exhausted, the license could be suspended for a period of six months. For repeat violations, the system could lead to the cancellation of the license entirely. Minister Gadkari indicated that this scheme is expected to be launched in the near future, marking a pivotal shift in traffic regulation.
Impact on Working-Age Population and Youth
Road safety continues to be a major concern in India, with a disproportionate share of accident victims belonging to the working-age population. Official data reveals that 72 percent of road deaths occur among individuals aged between 18 and 45 years. Additionally, the number of accident victims below 18 years stands at 10,119, underscoring the critical need for effective measures to protect all age groups.
The introduction of this point-based system represents a strategic effort to address these pressing issues by holding drivers accountable for their actions on the road.
