Pune: The Wagholi Traffic Division launched a large-scale crackdown on rule violators on Wednesday (March 6), penalizing 305 vehicle owners and collecting fines worth ₹2 lakh in a single day. The operation was conducted following numerous complaints about reckless driving and violations in the area.
Although a recent anti-encroachment drive on the Pune-Nagar Highway helped reduce congestion, unruly traffic behavior remains a major issue. Complaints about frequent traffic violations in Wagholi were submitted to the Pune Police Commissioner, prompting a special enforcement drive.
On Wednesday, 60 police officers and personnel were deployed to key locations in Wagholi, where they conducted checks at major intersections. The violations included:
Wrong-way driving
Triple riding on two-wheelers
Jumping traffic signals
Illegal parking
Missing or non-standard number plates
Several vehicles were seized, leading to large crowds at the Wagholi Traffic Department as owners rushed to pay fines and retrieve their vehicles. The action continued until 11 PM. Despite the heavy police presence, some motorists brazenly violated traffic rules in front of officers, including driving against the flow of traffic. Some drivers attempted to flee, but were caught and fined.
Traffic Department Existing Officers Required Officers
Wagholi Traffic Department - 35 - 55
Lonikand Traffic Department - 10 - 25
Assistant Police Inspector Dattatray Ligade of the Wagholi Traffic Department stated: "As per the Police Commissioner's orders, we have intensified action against traffic violators. If drivers follow the rules, they will not face penalties, and traffic congestion will also decrease. This drive will continue regularly."
