To address inconsistencies in speed limits on national highways and expressways across different states, the road transport ministry is working on an amendment to the Motor Vehicle Act. The proposed amendment would make it mandatory for states to consult with national highway authorities before altering the maximum speed limits on any stretch of national highways (NH) within their jurisdiction.

Currently, national highways generally have a speed limit of 100 kmph, while expressways allow speeds of up to 120 kmph. However, states retain the authority to set speed limits based on local conditions.

A source explained the motivation behind the change: "When state authorities impose speed limits on national highways that differ from those set by the Centre, it creates confusion for drivers, especially those unfamiliar with the area. This inconsistency can also become a source of corruption for local law enforcement agencies."

Under the proposed amendment, state agencies would be required to consult the regional officers (ROs) of highway-owning bodies ? such as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL), and the road transport ministry ? before implementing any changes to speed limits. This proposal is part of a broader set of revisions to the Motor Vehicle Act.

Another significant proposed change includes doubling the penalties and fines for traffic violations committed by school buses. This measure aims to hold both drivers and vehicle owners, including educational institutions, more accountable. The ministry plans to introduce a new clause in the Act to expand the definition of light motor vehicles (LMVs), as promised to the Supreme Court.

The new provision would require violators to pay double the fines for offences such as running red lights, speeding, lane violations, and failing to maintain an active fitness certificate and road permit. An official noted, "This new section is being added in response to the growing number of accidents involving school buses carrying children. The goal is to enhance the safety of students traveling to schools or other educational institutions."

This initiative follows a tragic incident in April, where six school students lost their lives in Narnaul, Haryana, after a bus carrying 40 students was involved in an accident. The investigation revealed that the driver was under the influence of alcohol. (ET)