Nagpur: With several city CCTV cameras remaining non-functional, the Nagpur Traffic Police are increasingly relying on citizens’ mobile videos and social media posts to act against traffic violations. Smartphone-captured clips showing reckless driving, illegal vehicle modifications, and blatant rule-breaking are leading to swift enforcement—after due verification.
According to officials, the traffic department receives around 25 complaints every day through platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. Action is initiated only after independent verification of the video evidence.
Citizen Videos Trigger Action
In a recent viral incident, a group of youths were seen riding motorcycles fitted with modified Bullet silencers and creating nuisance on Sadar roads. Once the video surfaced, traffic police tracked down the offenders, issued challans, and seized the motorcycles involved.
Traffic authorities have been conducting a sustained crackdown on modified silencers, especially on Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycles, which frequently appear in viral clips. Many of the individuals caught are minors.
Operation U-Turn Shows Impact
Under the ongoing ‘Operation U-Turn’, the Nagpur Traffic Police have adopted a strict approach toward underage driving. The initiative is being led by DCP (Traffic) Lohit Matani, and results have been significant.
Nagpur recorded a 26% reduction in fatal road accidents in 2025 compared to 2024.
- 348 fatalities in 2024
- 258 fatalities till December 21, 2025
January 2026, too, saw fewer fatal accidents than January 2025.
Parents Facing Legal Action
DCP Lohit Matani told Lokmat Times that at least two dozen parents have been booked under Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 for allowing their minor children to drive.
“Parents can face up to three years of imprisonment, a fine of ₹25,000, or both. The law clearly holds guardians or vehicle owners responsible if a minor commits a traffic offence,” Matani said.
He urged parents to stop encouraging underage driving, stressing that such negligence puts their children and other road users at serious risk.
