Commuters all over the country are fearing the new Motor Vehicle Act which imposes hefty fines for traffic violations. Jumping the signals, wrong route driving, helmet are some of the measures to be strictly followed here but Uttar Pradesh police have brought a new norm to this act which is ‘LUNGI DRIVING.’
Generally, truck drivers drive wearing Lungis and vests (Banians) as they take up long-distance journeys. In order to keep themselves comfortable, truck drivers prefer to wear Lungis and vests. But Uttar Pradesh Traffic Police are putting challans to truck drivers whoever is caught with wearing Lungis. This has shocked many and a few even questioned whether this is actually part of the new Motor Vehicle Act.
Issuing a clarification on this UP’s Transport Additional Commissioner said, as per the 1939 Motor Vehicle Act, truck drivers should wear proper outfits while driving, if not they will be fined. In the year 1989, this Act underwent amendments and for the same violation, drivers need to pay Rs 500 fine. With the new Act (2019), the penalty has increased to Rs 2000. The commissioner also added that the drivers should wear shoes and anyone who doesn’t follow none of the measures, will get a challan.
The truck drivers are raising objections over it. As this new Motor Vehicle Act 2019 is in its initial stages, they are said to be thinking of protesting on a larger stage such that this norms gets changed.