The government is working on a new system that could make it easier to penalize unsafe driving with a proposal to introduce a point-based mechanism for driving licenses. Under the scheme, motorists who repeatedly violate traffic rules may face suspension or even cancellation of their licenses.Speaking at the National Conference on Road Safety organized by industry body CII in New Delhi, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said the proposed system aims to encourage responsible driving and reduce accidents. He said that people’s lives are extremely important and the government is taking several steps to improve road safety across the country.According to the minister, around 5 lakh road accidents are recorded every year in India, resulting in around 1.8 lakh deaths, PTI reported. Many of these deaths are linked to dangerous practices such as using mobile phones while driving, speeding, driving on the wrong side of the road and drunk driving. He reported that despite higher penalties for traffic violations, enforcement remains a major challenge and there is often little fear or respect for traffic laws.
New driving system: how will it work?
Under the proposed graded points system, drivers would start with a set number of points on their licence. Points will be deducted for traffic offences, and once all points are exhausted, the license may be suspended for six months. In case of repeated violations the license can be cancelled. The minister said that the scheme is expected to be launched soon.Road safety remains a major concern, with a large number of accident victims being from the working age population. According to official figures, 72 percent of road deaths occur among people aged 18 to 45 years. The number of accident victims under the age of 18 is 10,119. Input from PTI.
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