Editor,
The increasing imposition of overspeeding fines on national highways in Assam has become a matter of concern for many law-abiding motorists. While no one disputes the importance of road safety, the logic behind some of the prescribed speed limits needs to be reviewed.
Modern cars are designed and manufactured to operate safely at speeds much higher than the limits enforced on many stretches of well-constructed highways. Considerable public funds are invested in building and upgrading national highways to facilitate faster, smoother, and more efficient transportation. When such roads are available, motorists naturally expect to travel at reasonable speeds without the fear of excessive penalties.
It is understandable that speed limits are necessary in accident-prone areas, near habitations, schools, markets, and sharp curves. However, imposing low speed limits on long stretches of open highways and penalising motorists heavily for minor violations appears unreasonable to many road users.
The government and highway authorities may consider undertaking a scientific review of existing speed limits based on road design, traffic density, and safety standards. Rational and realistic speed limits, coupled with strict action against reckless and dangerous driving, would serve the cause of road safety more effectively than indiscriminate penalisation.
Many motorists sincerely hope that the existing rules will be revisited and revised where necessary. Those who have paid substantial fines for marginal overspeeding violations naturally feel aggrieved, as the penalties affect their hard-earned income. While reimbursement of past fines may not be legally feasible, a fair review of the policy would go a long way in addressing public concerns and restoring confidence in traffic enforcement.
Gonya Riba,
Nirjuli