Mumbai is witnessing an alarming surge in traffic violations, with over 65 lakh motorists caught breaking rules in the last 13 months. Despite the Mumbai Traffic Police imposing fines worth ₹526 crore, only ₹157 crore has been recovered, leaving a massive ₹369 crore still unpaid. The data, obtained through an RTI request by activist Anil Galgali, raises serious concerns about enforcement and fine collection efforts.
65 Lakh Violations, 44 Lakh Defaulters
Between January 1, 2024, and February 5, 2025, the Mumbai Traffic Police booked 65,12,846 motorists for various traffic offenses. Out of these, only 20,99,396 violators have cleared their fines. A shocking 44,13,450 motorists have yet to pay their penalties, adding to the growing backlog of unpaid fines amounting to ₹369 crore.
Action Against Misuse of Flashing and Amber Lights
The police also cracked down on the illegal use of flicker and amber lights, issuing fines to 47 motorists totalling ₹23,500. However, only seven violators have cleared their dues. The Marine Drive area witnessed the highest number of such violations, with 32 vehicles fined, but only two motorists paid their penalties.
RTI Activist Calls for Stricter Action
RTI activist Anil Galgali has urged authorities to step up efforts to recover the pending dues. He praised the Mumbai Traffic Police’s efforts but pointed out that staff shortages are making fine collection ineffective.
To address this issue, he suggested:
Issuing digital notices to defaulters for faster recovery
Seizing vehicles of major offenders to enforce payment
With a staggering ₹369 crore in unpaid fines, the question remains—will authorities take tougher action to ensure compliance, or will Mumbai’s traffic offenders continue to escape penalties?
