On April 26, 2024, the Dhanera police in Banaskantha district launched a targeted traffic enforcement drive focusing on vehicles fitted with illegal black tinted glass and those lacking number plates. Under the supervision of Police Inspector M.J. Chaudhary, the team conducted checks near the railway bridge area, resulting in 14 drivers being fined a total of ₹7,000. One motorcycle was returned to its owner, while a vehicle with illegal black glass was detained, and the illegal tint was removed on the spot.
What the Policy Actually Says
The traffic enforcement in Dhanera aligns with the Gujarat Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, under which vehicles with excessive or unauthorized window tinting are prohibited. Specifically, Rule 108 of the Gujarat Motor Vehicles Rules restricts the use of black or dark films that reduce visibility, both for the driver and law enforcement officials. Additionally, the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, mandates that all motor vehicles must display valid registration plates both at the front and rear, which must be clearly visible and legible at all times.
The Gujarat State Government’s Transport Department has issued notifications reinforcing these provisions. Vehicles violating these rules are subject to penalties, seizure, and other legal actions as per Sections 177 and 192 of the Motor Vehicles Act. The Dhanera police drive is part of this enforcement regime to ensure compliance and enhance road safety.
Who Is Affected and How
The drive primarily targets vehicle owners in the Banaskantha district, especially in Dhanera town, who use unauthorized black tinted films on windows or operate vehicles without valid number plates. These violations not only contravene the law but also hinder police in identifying vehicles involved in traffic violations or criminal activities.
Drivers of private cars, taxis, and commercial vehicles have been stopped and fined. According to official sources, vehicles without proper registration or with obscured number plates face higher scrutiny. The recent drive saw one vehicle detained due to black glass violations, highlighting that repeat offenders or those with severe infractions may have their vehicles impounded.
Residents of Dhanera and neighboring towns have expressed concern over the presence of unregistered vehicles and tinted glass that compromise road safety and law enforcement efficacy. The police’s strict approach aims to deter such practices and encourage lawful vehicle maintenance.
Why the Government Made This Change
Traffic safety and law enforcement challenges have prompted the Gujarat Transport Department and local police to intensify actions against illegal vehicle modifications. Black tinted glass reduces the driver’s visibility, especially at night, increasing accident risks. It also impedes police officers’ ability to confirm driver identity and vehicle details during traffic stops.
Dhanera, part of the Banaskantha district with a population exceeding 300,000 according to the 2011 Census, has witnessed rising road traffic incidents linked to poor compliance with vehicle norms. The local administration aims to reduce accidents and improve overall traffic discipline through these enforcement drives.
These measures align with broader state initiatives, including the Gujarat High Court’s strict directives on traffic violations and similar actions in neighboring districts such as Radhanpur, where authorities have imposed fines against vehicles with black film on windows. These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to road safety and legal compliance.
What Critics and Stakeholders Say
Local residents largely welcome the crackdown, appreciating the police’s proactive stance. Community leaders in Dhanera have urged continued vigilance, emphasizing that consistent enforcement will deter violations. However, some transport operators have voiced concerns about the cost and inconvenience of removing tints and ensuring proper registration, calling for awareness programs alongside enforcement.
Traffic safety experts from Gujarat State Road Safety Authority (GSRSA) have recommended periodic public education campaigns to complement police drives. They stress that while penalties are necessary, educating drivers on the dangers of illegal vehicle modifications and the benefits of compliance is equally important.
Moreover, some critics point out that enforcement should be uniform across districts to avoid perceptions of selective policing. They also highlight the need to address underlying issues such as delays in vehicle registration and licensing processes that contribute to non-compliance.
What This Means for You
Vehicle owners and drivers in Dhanera and Banaskantha district should take immediate steps to ensure their vehicles comply with traffic regulations:
- Check Vehicle Tinting: Remove any black or dark tint films that exceed permissible limits as per the Gujarat Motor Vehicles Rules.
- Verify Number Plates: Ensure that both front and rear number plates are properly affixed, clean, and legible.
- Confirm Registration Status: Confirm your vehicle’s registration is up to date with the Gujarat Transport Department. For assistance, visit the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Palanpur, the district headquarters.
- Stay Informed: Follow official updates from the Banaskantha Police and Gujarat Transport Department websites for ongoing enforcement drives.
- Report Violations: Citizens are encouraged to report vehicles with illegal tints or missing plates to the Dhanera Police at the local station or through official helplines.
By taking these steps, drivers contribute to safer roads and avoid penalties. For more information or to report violations, residents can visit the Dhanera Police Station located on Station Road, or access the Gujarat Transport Department portal at https://transport.gujarat.gov.in.
The Dhanera police plan to continue these enforcement drives regularly, reinforcing their commitment to road safety. This drive complements other local initiatives such as the Palanpur Municipality’s efforts against plastic and littering and traffic safety campaigns across Gujarat.