Pune is the second-largest city in Maharashtra and is considered one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. According to TomTom's 2023 report, Pune ranks seventh among the world's most congested cities, with residents spending an average of 256 hours each year stuck in traffic during peak hours. Traffic has increased in Pune due to the growing population, insufficient transport infrastructure, and a rise in private vehicle ownership. 

To address some of these challenges, Pune's authorities have implemented measures such as revising traffic fines to encourage compliance with road regulations. The city has a well-established system for enforcing traffic rules and regulations.

The implementation of the new traffic fines in Pune occurred after the Indian Government passed the Motor Vehicles Amendment Act in September 2019. This brought about a significant increase in challan rates, initially causing shock among many individuals.

Furthermore, as per the news, about 9 lakh people in Pune were caught breaking traffic rules, resulting in the collection of fines amounting to ₹56 Crore. Common traffic violations include driving recklessly, running red lights, stopping vehicles before crosswalks, and parking in areas marked as 'no parking' zones.

Yes, according to a media report, Pune traffic fines have been reduced by 50% through the Maha Lok Adalat initiative launched by the District Legal Services Authority Pune. The initiative offers relief to individuals burdened by traffic fines. It is held at the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) near the Yerwada office, Airport Road.

Approximately ₹32,04,44,50,545 in revenue was collected from challans 1,95,69,861 in India in 2023.

In Pune, traffic fines are collected by the state police through multiple channels. These include paying on-the-spot fines to police officers or at specified locations, online payments, and submitting fines at traffic police stations with the required documentation.

You can check your traffic challan in Pune online in some easy ways mentioned below.

Process to Check e-Challan Online in Pune

• You can see the  status of your e-Challan through the Parivahan website under the “Check Online Services” tab.

• Next, you can check the status through the Maharashtra State E-Challan payment portal.

Process to Pay e-Challan Online in Pune

• You can easily pay your traffic fines via the Parivahan website.

• You can also pay it through the Maharashtra State E-Challan payment portal.

You also have the choice to pay your fine in cash to a traffic police officer who has an e-challan machine. Similarly, you can visit any traffic police station in your city, with the required documents, to submit your fine.

Here are some crucial points you must keep in mind while driving a four-wheeler in Pune:

• Wear Seatbelt: You and your passengers must wear seatbelts while driving. Failing to do so may result in a traffic fine in Pune.

• Avoid Using Mobile Phones: Using a mobile phone while driving can distract you and increase the risk of accidents. Violating this rule could lead to Pune traffic fines.

• Don’t Drive Under The Influence: Never drive under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicating substances, as it significantly increases the chances of a severe accident. Additionally, avoid drinking and driving fines and even imprisonment.

• Maintain Speed Limit: Adhere to speed limits to maintain control of your vehicle and prevent accidents. Excessive speeding may result in substantial fines in Pune.

• Get Insurance: Make sure you have car insurance and always carry it when driving in Pune. It is a legal requirement, and failure to show them can lead to a fine of ₹2,000 and 3 months in prison.

• Carry Essential Documents: Carry all necessary documents like driving licence, vehicle registration, etc. 

The following are some important traffic rules for two-wheelers in Pune that you must follow:

• Prevent Overloading: Do not carry more than two people, including the rider, on a two-wheeler. Overloading can cause accidents and result in severe penalties.

• Don’t Use Mobile Phone: Refrain from using a phone while riding, as it increases the chances of losing control. Using a phone is a serious offence with potential traffic fines.

• Wear Helmet: Protect yourself from head injuries by wearing a helmet while riding. Not wearing one can lead to significant fines.

• Avoid Reckless Riding: Avoid road racing, overspeeding, or aggressive manoeuvres. Such behaviour risks your safety and that of others and can lead to hefty fines.

• Carry Necessary Documents: Always have your vehicle and driver-related documents handy. Authorities may ask for them during inspections, and not having them can result in fines.

• Get Insurance: Ensure you have bike insurance and keep it with you whenever you ride in Pune.

It is essential for all vehicle riders to familiarise themselves with the updated traffic fines in Pune to avoid penalties and ensure road safety. Whether driving four-wheelers or riding two-wheelers, adhering to traffic regulations is crucial to prevent accidents and maintain road order. Moreover, you should stay informed and follow the traffic rules diligently.