If anything is receiving straight attention these days, it is undeniably the new Motor Vehicles Act which has been initiated to contain road accidents. The fines being slapped on easy-going vehicle owners, particularly the bikers, scooterists and tempos are terribly painful. But the compliance is a must since it has been implemented with full force.
There are instances where the owners of two-wheelers have expressed their deep resentment at the massive amounts of the fine. However, the purpose of the rule appears to be taking its desired effects, absolutely. In a very short time since its implementation, vehicle owners have genuinely realised that the steep penalties under different heads are not only exceedingly unaffordable but also unpayable instantly. In such a complex condition, the fast and quick option of surrendering the vehicle comes to their thinking mind.
Traffic police do not show any sort of mercy upon the rule offenders and this makes the vehicle owners feel as if they are jolted by some sort of sudden earthquake under their quivering feet. In my opinion, this act is as ‘irritating’ as the electricity bill, sewer tax and house tax as well. No respite, either pay the amount or face the severe brunt of breaking the rules.
Some people who own old motor vehicles seem to have made up their minds to surrender their vehicles. This tendency is likely to reduce the number of vehicles moving on the road. Thus, there’s a good chance that traffic jams and mishaps will gradually decrease without any hitches.
Furthermore, youth interested in bike rides will soon develop a sense of disenchantment about driving bikes and scooters. When the two-wheelers will not run on the roads or byroads, the mechanics will have to face the problem of customers. They will start praying for one or two or three disturbed drivers for repairing the engine faults or mending the punctured tubeless tyres. In such a condition, the consumption of petrol will also lessen to a considerable level. This could lead the man at the petrol pump to bemoan his extra income from short weighing.
Also, the school-going students will not use their two-wheelers with the same fervent zeal. They will have to catch other means of transportation. Besides, this will end the usual demand for the widening of the narrow roads if vehicles are not plying profusely.
Young and old will start walking and this will fulfil the objective of ‘Fit India’ to a larger degree. There will not be swift movement as foot walk remains time-consuming. If we consider the hidden meaning in the freshly implemented rules, we will come to realise all these good things.
It is correct that the new rules are applicable in the countries where the condition of the road is far superior to us. Here, facilities are scant but hardships are many. Now it is hard for citizens to own a motor vehicle for a speedy run. The days of the cycle and the bullock cart seem to be returning as there is not enough difference in coughing up penalties and the sum spent on buying a new vehicle.
Some are of the opinion that people will show more interest in obtaining everything through online delivery of service. However, our Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has stated that the steep hike in fines is meant to dissuade people from breaking the law.