RTOs Neglect Headlight Modification Rules, Raising Road Safety Concerns
RTOs Neglect Headlight Modification Rules, Raising Road Safety Concerns
Illegal headlight modifications continue to be a widespread issue in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad, despite directives from the Transport Commissioner’s office, leading to growing road safety concerns.
Activists have raised alarms about the lack of enforcement by the Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) against vehicles with non-compliant, excessively bright headlights. These unauthorized modifications not only violate safety standards but also pose a significant hazard to other drivers, contributing to an increase in road accidents.
In response to a complaint from the civic group Surajya Abhiyaan, the Transport Commissioner issued an order on August 23, directing all RTOs to crack down on illegal headlight modifications and to report on the actions taken. However, despite these clear instructions, there has been little to no action from the RTOs, allegedly due to bureaucratic delays.
The Central Motor Vehicle Rules of 1989 were amended in 2005 to include stricter safety standards aimed at preventing drivers from being blinded by oncoming headlights. However, enforcement of these regulations has been inconsistent. The recent complaint to the Transport Commissioner highlighted the lack of adherence to these rules, prompting a state-wide directive for regional and sub-regional transport officials to address the issue and raise public awareness.
Despite these assurances, the continued inaction by local RTOs has left many concerned about the potential for further road safety risks in the region.
