Automated system to identify and penalise vehicles without valid insurance from Feb 1 in Odisha

In a major decision to bolster road safety, the State Transport Department (STA) has decided to crack the whip on vehicles without valid insurance. In the latest decision, such violators will be identified and penalised through an automated system from February 1, 2025.

Under this, e-detection process, e-challans will be issued to the violators. This automated system will be operational at all 22 toll plazas within Odisha.

Under the Motor Vehicles Act, insurance is a legal requirement. A breach of this law invites consequences, potentially incurring a fine of Rs 2,000 or a jail term of up to three months, or both. Repeat offences attract a more stringent fine of Rs 4,000 along with similar imprisonment terms.

Uninsured commercial vehicles and private vehicles are often in violation, and their negligence can leave families of road accident victims without adequate compensation.

To counter this issue, the Transport Commissioner has directed the issuance of electronic notices (E-Notices) and the initiation of appropriate legal measures against offenders. Previously, toll plazas have identified violations concerning permits, fitness certificates, and tax dues, and will now include insurance status in their checks.