Tue Apr 15 16:12:03 UTC 2025: ## Kochi RTO Cracks Down on Overloaded Vehicles, Imposes ₹5.2 Crore Fine

**KOCHI, April 15, 2025** – The Enforcement Squads of the Ernakulam Regional Transport Office (RTO) have collected a massive ₹5.20 crore in fines from overloaded vehicles over the past 16 months. The crackdown primarily targeted tipper lorries found carrying significantly more than their permitted weight.

A total of 1,420 cases were registered, with approximately 1,100 resolved through settlements, adalats (dispute resolution forums), or court payments. The remaining 320 cases are pending prosecution, with lorry operators contesting the charges. Some claim no overload existed, while others cite procedural errors by RTO officials.

Officials highlight the significant safety risk posed by overloaded vehicles, emphasizing that the substantial fine amount reflects the severity of the problem. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, a one-tonne overload incurs a ₹10,000 fine, with an additional ₹1,500 for each extra tonne, escalating significantly in court.

Two recent court cases illustrate the penalties: a ₹38,000 fine each for driver and owner of a lorry carrying nine tonnes overload, and a ₹54,000 fine for another lorry with a 17-tonne overload. These cases underscore the legal consequences of violating weight limits.

To effectively curb overloading, a high-ranking MVD official advocates for the installation of weigh bridges near quarries, mining sites, and goods yards. Collaboration between the Legal Metrology department, Mining and Geology department, and local bodies is deemed crucial for this initiative. While some Legal Metrology officials claim many quarries already have weigh bridges, MVD officials contest this, citing the continued prevalence of heavily overloaded vehicles.

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