In a stern warning to thrill-seekers and sunroof enthusiasts alike and to curb the reckless driving practices, Punjab Police have launched a crackdown on drivers who indulge in risky behaviours by opening sunroofs while in motion.
The state’s Assistant Director General of Police (ADGP), Traffic and Road Safety, has issued stern directives to the Commissioners of Police (CPs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) across all districts of Punjab, mandating stringent actions against offenders caught engaging in unsafe behaviours.
The directive comes amidst growing concerns over road safety, particularly in urban and national highways where incidents of distraction due to open sunroofs have been reported. “The act of standing or indulging in activities through an open sunroof poses serious risks, distracting drivers and endangering road users,” said the ADGP in a directive reminiscent of Bangalore’s initiative.
Sunroofs, often associated with high-end car models, have become a source of fascination for children and young adults, who relish the sensation of wind rushing past them as vehicles zip along. However, the state law enforcement agency has made it clear that this behaviour is both illegal and dangerous.
“While there is no specific rule prohibiting individuals from standing inside their car and looking out of the sunroof, Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act empowers us to impose fines on such offenders. It is a dangerous stunt that endangers not only those inside the car but also others on the road,” said a senior police official.
This section of the Motor Vehicles Act provides the legal basis for penalizing individuals engaged in such acts. Though the act itself may not be explicitly described, this section enables law enforcement to take action, holding both the car owner and the driver accountable for these actions. Penalties for offenders could exceed Rs 26,000, reflecting a stringent approach aimed at deterring such risky behaviours.
Traffic enforcement teams have been specifically tasked to monitor and take immediate action upon receiving complaints or evidence, prioritizing public safety above all else.
While luxury car manufacturers offer sunroofs for comfort and style, their misuse by some individuals has led to hefty fines and penalties in the past. Recently, a youth in Delhi was fined Rs 26,000 for lounging through an open sunroof, a precedent that Punjab authorities intend to enforce rigorously.
The Punjab Police’s initiative underscores their commitment to road safety and ensuring that drivers adhere to regulations, emphasizing the potential dangers posed by distracted driving. As enforcement measures tighten, authorities anticipate a significant reduction in incidents associated with sunroof misuse, fostering safer roads across the State.
