Table of Contents
- Introduction
- 30 Lakh Challans in 2024: What the Numbers Say
- Why Two-Wheelers Are the Top Offenders
- Common Traffic Violations by Bikers
- Personal View: As a Taxi Driver in Mumbai
- Impact on Road Safety
- Government & Police Initiatives
- Fines and Penalties: What You Should Know
- What Can Be Done to Improve Mumbai’s Road Discipline
- FAQs About Traffic Violations in Mumbai
- Final Thoughts
Introduction
Mumbai – the city that never sleeps – is also the city that never stops honking. With lakhs of vehicles moving daily, traffic discipline is crucial, yet violations are rising. As of mid-2024, over 45 lakh challans have already been issued. Shockingly, more than 30 lakh of them are to two-wheeler riders!
Being a taxi driver here for over a decade, I’ve seen how traffic behavior has evolved (and worsened). In this article, I’ll break down the latest data, reasons behind the spike, and what needs to change.
30 Lakh Challans in 2024: What the Numbers Say
According to the latest data from Mumbai Traffic Police:
- Total challans issued (Jan–July 2024): 45,86,002
- To Two-Wheelers: 30,12,433
- To Cars: 9,28,700
- To Autorickshaws: 4,11,098
- To Buses & Others: 2,33,771
That means two-wheelers make up over 65% of all traffic offences.
Why Two-Wheelers Are the Top Offenders
There are several reasons why bikers top the charts:
- High volume: Mumbai has over 42 lakh registered two-wheelers.
- Narrow road behavior: Riders often slip through small gaps, ignoring lane discipline.
- Signal jumping: Impatience leads to frequent red-light violations.
- Helmetless riding: Despite awareness, many still ride without helmets.
- Illegal modifications: Loud silencers, fancy number plates, and stunts on roads.
Common Traffic Violations by Bikers
Here are the top offences by two-wheeler riders:
| Violation | Penalty (₹) |
|---|---|
| Riding without helmet | First ₹500 Then 1500 |
| Signal jumping | ₹1,000 then ₹1500 |
| Rash driving/stunt riding | ₹5,000 or license suspension |
| Wrong-side driving | ₹500 – ₹1,000 |
| Using mobile while riding | ₹2,000 then ₹4,000 |
Personal View: As a Taxi Driver in Mumbai
As someone who drives 10–12 hours daily on Mumbai’s roads, I face near-misses with bikes every day.
They zoom past from the left, overtake dangerously, and sometimes ride between lanes. During monsoon, it’s even riskier. Many bikers don’t wear helmets, and I’ve seen tragic accidents at signals.
What hurts most is when I get blamed for braking suddenly – but it’s because some bike cut across without warning.
Impact on Road Safety
Traffic violations aren’t just rule-breaking — they’re life-threatening.
According to Mumbai Police:
- 40% of road accidents involve two-wheelers
- Helmetless riders are 4x more likely to suffer fatal injuries
- Pedestrians are at greater risk due to sudden bike turns and wrong-side riding
This culture of “jaldi mein hoon” has become dangerous for everyone on the road.
Government & Police Initiatives
To control this issue, Mumbai Traffic Police and RTOs are taking steps:
- Helmet enforcement drives
- Speed cameras & ANPR systems
- Instant e-challans through CCTV
- Awareness campaigns in colleges & workplaces
However, the number of violations suggests that enforcement alone is not enough.
Fines and Penalties: What You Should Know
You can check and pay your traffic fines online:
Official Mumbai Traffic Police e-Challan Portal
Ensure you:
- Use your vehicle number
- Check for unpaid challans monthly
- Save the receipt after paying
Alternative You Can Download Official Mumbai Traffic Police App From PlayStore.
What Can Be Done to Improve Mumbai’s Road Discipline
For Riders:
- Always wear a helmet (with ISI mark)
- Follow traffic signals even when roads are empty
- Avoid riding on footpaths or wrong sides
For Authorities:
- More speed breakers and digital signage
- More traffic constables at high-risk intersections
- Awareness campaigns in schools and auto shops
For Public Transport Drivers (like me):
- Drive with patience
- Respect bike lanes
- Use mirrors carefully
FAQs About Traffic Violations in Mumbai
What’s the fine for riding without a helmet in Mumbai?
₹500 for the rider. In some cases, pillion rider also gets fined.
How to check traffic fines in Mumbai online?
Visit u003ca href=u0022https://mahatrafficechallan.gov.in/payechallan/PaymentService.htm?_qc=c9966db6cee60f065a5a009a0f1d4f60u0022 data-type=u0022linku0022 data-id=u0022https://mahatrafficechallan.gov.in/payechallan/PaymentService.htm?_qc=c9966db6cee60f065a5a009a0f1d4f60u0022u003emahatrafficechallan.gov.inu003c/au003e and enter your vehicle number.
Do e-challans affect my driving license?
Repeated violations may lead to license suspension or points deduction under the Motor Vehicle Act.
Can I contest a wrong challan?
Yes. You can raise a grievance on the portal or App.
Are traffic fines higher for repeat offenders?
Yes. Penalties increase if you commit the same offence multiple times.
Final Thoughts
Mumbai’s streets are already full, chaotic, and stressful. Let’s not add to the danger with careless riding or rule-breaking.
As a taxi driver, I urge all two-wheeler riders to ride safe, wear helmets, and follow traffic laws. It’s not just about fines – it’s about saving lives.