Gangtok: With the nationwide implementation of new traffic regulations from March 1, Sikkim has introduced stricter penalties for traffic violations to enhance road safety and curb reckless driving. The revised rules, aimed at reducing accidents, impose significantly higher fines, licence suspensions, and even jail terms for serious offences.
The Sikkim Transport Department has welcomed these changes, emphasizing that they will help curb rash driving, overloading of tourist vehicles, and disregard for road safety rules, particularly in Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Pelling. Officials have urged motorists to strictly follow traffic laws to avoid hefty penalties and legal consequences.
Under the new rules, drunken driving now attracts a fine of ₹10,000 and up to six months in prison, with repeat offenders facing ₹15,000 fine and a two-year jail term. Helmetless riding and not wearing seatbelts will now incur fines of ₹1,000, along with a three-month licence suspension. Using mobile phones while driving will cost offenders ₹5,000, up from the previous ₹500. Jumping a red light and dangerous driving now come with ₹5,000 and ₹10,000 fines, respectively.
For commercial and tourist vehicles, overloading will now attract a fine of ₹20,000, up from ₹2,000. Triple riding on a two-wheeler will cost ₹2,000, while driving without insurance now carries a ₹5,000 fine. Violators failing to yield to emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, will be fined ₹5,000, reinforcing road discipline in Sikkim’s narrow mountain roads where such delays can be life-threatening.
One of the strictest provisions is the penalty for juvenile traffic offences. If a minor is caught violating traffic laws, a ₹25,000 fine will be imposed, the vehicle’s registration will be cancelled for a year, and the offender will be barred from obtaining a licence until the age of 25. Additionally, the guardian or vehicle owner will be held responsible and could face up to three years in jail.
The Sikkim government is also set to launch awareness campaigns to educate both locals and tourists on these new regulations. Authorities will conduct regular vehicle checks and enforce stricter monitoring to ensure compliance. Officials believe that these measures will create a safer and more disciplined traffic system, making Sikkim’s roads secure for residents and visitors alike.
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