Argus News - Unpaid Challans? Your DL is in Danger: The Traffic Rules Every Driver Must Know

Bhubaneswar, Jan 22: Odisha’s Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena has issued a stern warning to reckless drivers, declaring that vehicles belonging to those with more than five unpaid fines will be banned from the roads if dues are not cleared within 45 days.

“Strict action will follow for non-compliance,” Jena said, emphasizing that the government’s measures aim to enforce discipline, strengthen road safety, and prevent accidents.

This announcement comes in line with the Central Government’s sweeping reforms under the amended Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 2026. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has adopted a tough stance against traffic violators, revising Rules 167 and 167A of the 1989 regulations. The Gazette notification confirms that the new law will take effect from January 1, 2026.

Also read: New Beneficiaries Celebrate First Subhadra Yojana Payout Windfall

Take a look at the rules:

• If a driver violates traffic rules five or more times in a year, their driving license and RC will be cancelled.
• Police or authorized officers can issue challans physically or electronically.
• Provision for automated challan issuance through the e-challan system.
• Challans must be sent within 15 days physically or within 3 days electronically.
• Challan details will be uploaded to the portal.
• Citizens will have 45 days to pay or challenge the challan.
• If not challenged within 45 days, the challan will be considered accepted.
• If fines remain unpaid, daily e-notices will be sent.
• Non-payment may lead to cancellation of DL/RC.
• Vehicles will be marked on the portal as “Not to be Transacted”.
• Courts will have the authority to seize vehicles based on orders.
• Challans will be issued in the name of the registered owner of the vehicle.
• Mandatory notification of offences via SMS/Email.
• In case of no network, offline data will be recorded and later uploaded to the portal.

While the Centre pushes for accountability, Odisha continues to grapple with tragic road accidents. On average, 18 lives are lost daily in road crashes across the state. Recent incidents in Bhubaneswar have intensified public concern.

On Wednesday evening, a fatal accident near Rajiv Bhavan claimed one life, followed shortly by another hit-and-run case in Hanspal under Pahala police limits.

The entry of heavy vehicles into city limits during peak hours has also raised questions about traffic management and enforcement.