Thane motorists witnessed a significant spike in traffic-related violations in 2024, with a nearly 10% increase compared to the previous year, according to data from the Thane traffic police. While 10.5 lakh cases of various violations were registered in 2023, the figure climbed to 11.8 lakh in 2024.
Activists and Authorities Weigh In
Activists have attributed this rise to insufficient awareness campaigns by traffic authorities, while also holding motorists accountable for their disregard for traffic regulations.
“Lane cutting is a huge menace on Thane streets, with bikers showing scant regard for the rules and in most cases ending up meeting with mishaps. Penalising fails to generate any results, and the police should start detaining such offenders or make them go through counselling sessions, making them aware of the perils of their risky driving habits,” said Nitin Dossa, Chairman of the Western India Automobile Association.
Alarming Trends in Traffic Violations
The data highlights a sharp rise in several types of violations:
- Lane cutting: Reported cases jumped from a mere 59 in 2023 to 96,760 in 2024, indicating a massive increase in reckless driving behavior.
- Driving while using mobile phones: This continues to be a common offense among motorists.
- Helmetless biking and triple riding: Bikers frequently flout helmet laws, and triple-seat riding remains a persistent issue.
- Overcrowded transport vehicles: Vans and autos carrying excess passengers, including front-seat passengers in autos, saw a steep rise. In 2024, 1.2 lakh cases were recorded compared to roughly 57,000 in 2023.
- Drunk driving: Despite repeated awareness campaigns, drunk driving incidents almost doubled in 2024, continuing to endanger lives on Thane roads.
Awareness and Enforcement
Thane Traffic Deputy Police Commissioner Pankaj Shirsat pointed out that the rise in cases is partly due to intensified enforcement efforts.
“We have been undertaking several awareness campaigns in the city for motorists. The increase in cases reflects our proactive drives to penalize offenders. We are working towards encouraging motorists to obey traffic rules for their own safety and the safety of others through various modes of communication,” Shirsat said.
A Call for Stricter Measures
Activists and authorities alike are urging stricter punishments and innovative solutions to curb traffic violations.
“Motorists need to understand the grave consequences of their actions. Detention or mandatory counselling sessions could be effective in bringing about behavioral change,” Dossa emphasized.
The rise in traffic violations highlights the urgent need for Thane’s motorists to adopt safer practices and for authorities to implement stricter measures to ensure compliance with traffic laws. As the city grows, fostering responsible driving habits will be key to ensuring road safety for all.
