A traffic cop collects fine. Telegraph file picture

Jamshedpur, Aug 30: Better late than never.

To check rash and negligent driving or those violating other traffic rules, spot fine system will be implemented in the city from next week.

With the decision coming into force, Jamshedpur will be the second city after Ranchi in the state where the traffic police will be empowered to collect spot fine from motorists caught violating traffic rules.

The transport department, after almost five years of a formal request made by the East Singhbhum district administration, has agreed to empower the city police to collect spot fine in case of violation of traffic norms by motorists.

A public interest litigation (PIL) demanding spot fine system was also filed last year in Jharkhand High Court.

Till now district transport officer and motor vehicle inspectors were authorised to collect fine from motorists violating rules. Confirming the move, state transport commissioner Rajiv Arun Ekka said all the necessary paper work for this has been completed.

“The department has completed the paper work and it will be sent to the minister for his approval soon,” said Ekka.

East Singhbhum superintendent of police Ashish Batra hailed the decision saying it will help check the increasing menace in the city due to rise in the number of vehicles.

“This will help in reducing road accidents due to rash and negligent driving. It will also make people more law abiding,” said Batra.

Deputy superintendent of police (traffic) F.K.N. Kujur said police can collect fine from Rs 100 to 3,000. The minimum is for not wearing helmet and the maximum for overloading. A person caught for parking his vehicle in public place would pay a fine of Rs 500. In case of expiry of insurance, the fine is Rs 2,000. In case a person is caught driving without licence, he will have to cough up fine up to Rs 1,000.