Rs 7500 for this rising traffic violation; MVD's new rule in Kerala

KOLLAM: The motor vehicle department is all set to tackle down one traffic violation that is on the rise in Kerala. MVD is currently monitoring vehicles with distorted number plates, fake numbers and worn-out numbers which make it difficult for anyone to read the numbers displayed.

During the inspection conducted in Kollam rural and city limits, many two-wheelers were seized and fined by the enforcement wing of the motor vehicle department. Most people were caught in Asramam Maidanam, Karikode near TKM college and in Anchalumoodu road.

Some bike riders have now come up with new shenanigans to evade police inspection. When asked to stop for inspection, some bike riders would skitter away. The officials then will quickly get to take note of the vehicle number but will be left flummoxed. A pillion rider could just touch the number plate which will then go inside; thus making it impossible for anyone to take note of the number.

Motor vehicle department officials have also started action against the companies that prepare and provide such number plates. The company in Punalur that produced fake number plates was closed down. The registration of the vehicle can be suspended for three months if the vehicle number is found tampered with.

There are also situations when the AI camera fails to grab the vehicle details due to the tampering of number plates. If the vehicles are caught with irregular number plates, the punishment is a Rs 3000 fine and warning for the first time. If caught a second time, a fine of Rs 7500 will be imposed and the vehicle will be impounded. Later, after checking the vehicle's records, if there are other violations, fines will also be levied. After paying the fine, the vehicle will be released only after replacing the number plate at the Motor Vehicle Department office premises.

High-security number plates have been made mandatory on vehicles manufactured after April 1, 2019. Vehicles on road before 2019 should also switch to number plates containing the new high-security code.