In Ahmedabad, the Regional Transport Office (RTO) is taking strong action against reckless driving. Over the last 16 months, they have suspended more than 2,161 driving licenses and collected ₹10.98 crore in fines. This crackdown is a response to rising traffic violations in the city.
The RTO’s campaign started in April 2024 and continued until July 2025. They focused on various violations, including speeding, driving on the wrong side of the road, overloaded vehicles, and expired fitness certificates. The department has also cancelled 284 licenses of drivers caught driving dangerously in other states while holding Ahmedabad-issued licenses.
Public safety concerns have grown. The Gujarat High Court has urged stricter enforcement of traffic laws. The court criticises authorities for allowing repeat offenders to continue driving after paying small fines. They stress that strict actions are needed to ensure safer roads.
The RTO’s enforcement efforts have also included school transport vehicles. Recently, they filed 280 cases against school vans and rickshaws for serious violations, such as expired documents and overcrowding. In total, 27 vehicles were seized, and fines amounting to ₹3.80 lakh were imposed. This is alarming, as many schoolchildren are transported in unsafe and overloaded vehicles.
There is also a rise in incidents involving rogue shuttle rickshaw drivers. Newcomers to the city report being harassed, robbed, or abandoned mid-journey, especially near busy areas like Kalupur Railway Station and Ranip Bus Stand. A police rule requiring rickshaw drivers to display their names and addresses inside their vehicles is often ignored.
The surge in fatal accidents, hit-and-runs, and road crimes highlights the need for change. The Ahmedabad RTO’s actions send a clear message: reckless driving will face severe consequences, including license suspensions and criminal charges.
As part of their campaign, the RTO aims to improve road safety significantly. They plan to continue their focus on various traffic violations while ensuring that drivers understand the importance of following the rules. With the support of the Gujarat High Court and the public, the RTO hopes to create a safer environment for all road users.
The crackdown is a step in the right direction. However, it’s crucial that these measures continue to adapt to the changing landscape of traffic violations. The RTO must remain vigilant to ensure that the roads of Ahmedabad are safe for everyone. The community is encouraged to report violations and support these efforts for safer roads. Together, we can work towards a culture of responsible driving and adherence to traffic laws.