Bengaluru Traffic Cops Launch Strict Seat Belt Enforcement Drive

City-Wide Crackdown on Seat Belt Violations

Bengaluru traffic police have launched a firm enforcement drive targeting drivers and passengers who skip wearing seat belts. Officers are conducting surprise checks at major junctions and flyovers across the city.

Those caught without a fastened seat belt are being issued challans on the spot. The fine for the first offence has been set at Rs 1,000. Repeat offenders face a heftier penalty of Rs 3,000.

Vehicles Can Be Seized for Repeated Defaults

Officials have warned that persistent violators may have their vehicles seized. The traffic police are impounding cars and two-wheelers of habitual offenders until they pay the cumulative fine.

In the first week of the drive alone, over 12,000 challans were issued. More than 300 vehicles were taken into custody across various police station limits.

Focus on Reducing Road Fatalities

The enforcement push is part of a broader safety initiative by the Bengaluru Traffic Police. Data from the city's road accident reports shows that a large number of fatalities involve occupants not wearing seat belts.

Senior police officers have stated that the drive is not about revenue generation but about changing commuter behaviour. They emphasised that seat belts reduce the risk of death in a crash by nearly half.

Checks Extended to Night Hours and Suburbs

Initially limited to peak-hour checks, the enforcement has now been extended to late-night hours. Teams are also operating in outer ring road areas and tech corridors where speeding is common.

Autorickshaw drivers and cab operators are also being monitored. Passengers in the back seat of cars are not being spared either — the rule applies to all occupants.

Public Reaction Mixed, But Compliance Improving

Many commuters have complained about the sudden strictness, with some calling it harassment. However, traffic police have maintained that the law is clear and there is no room for leniency.

On the ground, more drivers are now seen buckling up even before starting their engines. Auto unions have advised their members to comply to avoid fines and impounding.

The drive is expected to continue for at least another month. Citizens can expect more nakabandi points and camera-based surveillance in the coming weeks.