Assam Announces Reforms in Traffic Fine Regulations to Ease Burden on Commuters

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced significant reforms in traffic fine regulations during a cabinet briefing in Nalbari. The reforms aim to address unjust treatment towards auto rickshaw drivers and ease financial burdens on commuters, especially the economically vulnerable. Effective immediately, penalties for helmet violations for two-wheelers will continue, but fines for document discrepancies have been abolished. Auto rickshaws and rickshaws will not be fined for initial violations but will face penalties after five or more repeated offenses. The transport department has been instructed to establish clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure fair enforcement. CM Sarma emphasized the government’s stance against undue harassment, citing last year’s modest revenue from fines and expressing disapproval of targeting poor individuals over minor amounts.