Rs 50,000 Overspeeding Fine Will Apply Only to Habitual Speeding Violators, Minister Clarifies

 

Kathmandu. Minister of Infrastructure Development Sunil Lamsal has clarified that the proposed Rs 50,000 fine for overspeeding will not apply to all traffic violations, saying penalties under the proposed law will vary based on the severity of the offense and repeat violations.

Addressing the House of Representatives on Tuesday, Lamsal said reports suggesting every driver caught overspeeding would face a Rs 50,000 fine is misleading.

"The proposed fine does not mean anyone exceeding the speed limit will automatically be fined Rs 50,000," he said. "We are working on a system where penalties will be determined based on the extent of overspeeding and whether the offense is repeated."

According to the minister, a driver exceeding a speed limit of 30–40 km/h by a small margin could face a fine of around Rs 500, while someone driving at 100 km/h in the same zone could be fined Rs 5,000. The maximum fine of Rs 50,000 would apply only to those who repeatedly commit serious overspeeding offenses.

Lamsal said the proposed legislation also includes provisions for suspending or canceling driving licences for habitual offenders.

He further said the government is considering allowing individuals who are unable to pay fines to work off the amount through a wage-based recovery system.

Responding to claims linking the recent self-immolation of ride-hailing driver Ganesh Nepali to an inability to pay a Rs 10,000 traffic fine, the minister urged the public not to spread unverified information.

"There is misinformation suggesting someone took such a step because they could not pay a Rs 10,000 fine. We should not spread rumors or provoke the public," he said.

Lamsal also addressed concerns over the proposed Kathmandu Metro Rail project, stating that it is planned to be developed through private sector investment rather than immediate government funding. He emphasized the importance of preserving rights-of-way for future rail corridors and road infrastructure, saying such planning would benefit future generations over the next 50 to 100 years.

पछिल्लो अध्यावधिक: असार ३०, २०८३ १६:२३

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