Use of Headphones While Driving May Soon Attract Penalty in Maharashtra
Use of Headphones While Driving May Soon Attract Penalty in Maharashtra
Mumbai – In a bid to strengthen road safety measures, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik is expected to finalize a major decision on (Monday, April 28) regarding penalties for drivers found using headphones while operating vehicles.
The move follows growing concern over distracted driving, highlighted by a serious incident on March 22 when a State Transport (ST) Shivneri bus driver was caught watching a cricket match on his phone while driving on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. A passenger recorded the incident and shared the footage with Minister Sarnaik, who promptly ordered the driver’s suspension. The bus, operated by a private contractor, led to a penalty of ₹5,000 being imposed on the contractor.
In response to such cases, Sarnaik had instructed authorities a month ago to draft guidelines for taking action against headphone-wearing drivers. However, with no significant progress, the Minister has expressed dissatisfaction and will seek accountability from officials in today’s ST Corporation meeting.
Adding momentum to the crackdown, the WhatsApp complaint number—initially limited to the Andheri RTO—will now be made available across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Citizens are encouraged to report violators by sending photos or videos directly to RTO offices for swift action.
“Despite issuing instructions a month ago, no steps have been taken. I will demand explanations in the meeting. Endangering passengers’ lives will not be tolerated,” Sarnaik said.
The move signals a tougher stance on distracted driving, aiming to ensure commuter safety remains a top priority.
