With an erring 17-year-old driver in Pune ramming his Porsche and claiming life of a two IT professionals, an analysis by the Delhi Traffic Police has revealed a staggering surge of more than six times in minor driving on the roads of the national Capital, to 101 cases in the period of January 1 to May 15 in 2024 from 15 during the same period in 2023.

A statement on Sunday stated, “The Delhi Traffic Police have intensified their efforts to curb the alarming rise in incidents of minor driving across the city. This year has seen a significant increase in the number of prosecutions against underage drivers, reflecting a robust and proactive stance by the Delhi Traffic Police.”

Further, it stated, “The statistics have revealed that between January 1 and May 15, 2024, the Delhi Traffic Police issued 101 challans for minor driving offenses, a significant increase from the 15 challans issued during the same period in 2023. This represents a remarkable surge of nearly 573% in prosecutions compared to the previous year. “

The police attributed this increase to the rigorous enforcement strategies and the unwavering commitment of the traffic police to uphold the law. “Additionally, the rise in prosecutions serves as a deterrent, highlighting the legal consequences of such violations,” it stated, adding that the enforcement drive has led to a substantial rise in the number of challans issued against minor drivers and their guardians.

In a bid to curb such accidents, police, throughout the current year, implemented several strategic measures aimed at tackling this issue, including heightened surveillance, deployment of additional personnel at key checkpoints, and increased patrolling in areas known for frequent traffic violations by minors.

“The crackdown on minor driving is part of a broader initiative to enhance road safety and reduce accidents involving young and inexperienced drivers. We have been conducting awareness campaigns in schools and communities to educate parents and guardians about the legal and safety implications of allowing minors to drive. These educational efforts are designed to complement the enforcement actions and foster a culture of responsible driving from a young age,” a senior official said.

The enforcement drive has led to a substantial rise in the number of challans issued against minor drivers and their guardians. The statistics have revealed that between January 1 and May 15, 2024, the Delhi Traffic Police issued 101 challans for minor driving offenses, a significant increase from the 15 challans issued during the same period in 2023. This represents a remarkable surge of nearly 573% in prosecutions compared to the previous year. The increase is attributed to the rigorous enforcement strategies and the unwavering commitment of the traffic police to uphold the law. Additionally, the rise in prosecutions serves as a deterrent, highlighting the legal consequences of such violations.

The Delhi Traffic Police reiterate their commitment to ensuring the safety of all road users and reducing traffic-related incidents. We urge parents and guardians to take their responsibility seriously and prevent minors from driving.

We also appeal to the public to report any instances of minor driving to the traffic police or the nearest police station.