Maharashtra Prepares Big Relief Move for ₹2,500 Crore Pending Fines, All To Know
Maharashtra Prepares Big Relief Move for ₹2,500 Crore Pending Fines, All To Know
The Maharashtra government is reportedly preparing to launch an amnesty scheme to tackle the growing backlog of traffic fines in the state. Officials said outstanding dues have crossed ₹2,500 crore, with more than ₹1,000 crore pending in Mumbai alone.
Since 2020, Mumbai alone has seen unpaid e-challan fines pile up to nearly ₹1,817 crore, but only ₹817 crore has been recovered so far. With lakhs of vehicle owners unwilling to pay, the state is now looking at new ways to speed up recovery and raise much-needed revenue.
To address this, the Transport Department is reportedly working on a one-time settlement (OTS) scheme that will allow defaulters to clear old dues by paying a fraction of the total fine. The proposal is currently with the Transport Secretary and is expected to be cleared in the coming months.
The scheme will offer relief to citizens while also helping the state generate funds. Officials believe the move could reach a wider base of defaulters compared to earlier efforts like Lok Adalats, which gave up to 50 percent relief but failed to attract large participation.
75% Waiver for Two- and Three-Wheelers
Under the proposed plan, owners of two-wheelers and auto-rickshaws could be allowed to settle their dues by paying just 25 percent of the pending amount. This would mean a 75 percent waiver for small vehicle categories, which account for the bulk of challans.
To encourage future compliance, the scheme may also include provisions for prompt payments. Vehicle owners who pay fines within 15 days of issuance could get a 50 percent waiver. Officials said this is aimed at reducing delays and promoting timely settlements.
Different Rules for Luxury Vehicles
The waiver, however, will not be the same for all. A tiered system is being planned where luxury or high-end vehicle owners will be given smaller waivers compared to two- and three-wheeler owners. Authorities said this structure will ensure fairness and maximize collections from those who can afford to pay more.
While there is no official launch date yet, the amnesty scheme is reportedly expected to be rolled out in the coming months after necessary approvals. Authorities are hopeful that the plan will not only reduce the massive backlog of fines but also build a culture of timely payment among vehicle owners in Maharashtra.
