Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Jul 30: Beginning August 1, Karnataka will introduce a stringent new traffic enforcement measure that involves filing First Information Reports (FIRs) against drivers exceeding speeds of 130 kilometers per hour. This decision comes in response to alarming statistics indicating that over-speeding is responsible for approximately 90% of fatal accidents in the state.

Additional director general of police (traffic and road safety) Alok Kumar announced the new rule, citing recent data that revealed 155 vehicles traveling over 130 kmph on the Bengaluru-Mysuru Highway on July 25. Kumar stated, "From August 1, FIRs will be filed against those driving above 130 kmph anywhere in Karnataka for rash and dangerous driving."

Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita - 281, speeds exceeding 120 kmph are classified as rash or dangerous driving. Kumar also referred to a tragic accident involving a vehicle traveling at 160 kmph on a Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprise road, which resulted in three fatalities. This incident, among others, has prompted the Supreme Court monitoring committee on road safety to call for more rigorous enforcement of speed limits.

"In 2022, 90% of road accident deaths in Karnataka were due to excessive speeds," Kumar noted. "The Supreme Court committee has emphasized the need for effective enforcement, leading to the implementation of this new rule. While enforcing it will be challenging, we are committed to addressing the issue."

The new enforcement policy will be applicable to all roads across Karnataka, not just highways. Speed monitoring will be facilitated by speed laser guns and Automatic Number Plate Recognition Cameras, particularly along the Bengaluru-Mysuru Highway. Kumar highlighted that while daytime enforcement is relatively manageable, night-time enforcement with speed laser guns poses additional difficulties.

Currently, the speed limit on national highways is 100 kmph, with state and other highways having lower limits and expressways allowing up to 120 kmph. The introduction of this policy reflects the state's ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and reduce the high incidence of speed-related accidents.