Traffic department’s fine proposal stuck

The state home ministry has rejected a traffic department proposal seeking allocation of 50% of the fine money collected by them. However, the finance department has recommended a modification to the proposal.

On an average, the traffic department collects Rs23 crore annually by way of different fines. The fine money is handed over to the government. With the increasing traffic drives against drunk driving, jay walking, jump signals, the fine amount is expected to increase.

On August 22, the Bombnay High Court has asked the home department to consider allocating at least a part of the fine amount collected to the traffic department. The court was hearing a public interest litigation filed by the Bombay Bar Association seeking strict implementation of traffic rules and regulations.

Interestingly, the home department had rejected the proposal before the HC order on August 22, but the same was yet to be communicated.

However, in view of the HC order, the same was taken up for fresh consideration.

Instead of allocating a fixed percentage of their fine collection, the finance department has suggested that the traffic department should approach them with their requirement which would be met.

“Let the traffic department put up their requirement before us and we would consider it,” an official in the finance department said. The reason for not giving a fixed percentage is that the fine amount collected by the traffic department may not be sufficient for their requirements.

Pravin Dixit, principal secretary of the home department, said they will inform the court about it at the next hearing. The traffic department gets an annual budget of Rs 1.25 crore.

“Of this, 90% is used for salary for staff.  The department has to then survive on remaining amount,” said another officer.