Diwali is one of the most anticipated festivals in India, marked by grand celebrations, family gatherings, and, of course, a lot of shopping and traveling. However, with the increase in festivities and traffic, many drivers tend to ignore basic traffic rules, leading to an uptick in traffic violations. Not only does this cause unnecessary delays, but it can also lead to heavy challans.

To ensure that your Diwali celebrations remain stress-free, here are the top 5 traffic violations you need to watch out for this Diwali season. Plus, we’ll also share tips on how to check your challan and how to pay fines online so you can stay on top of your traffic obligations.

1. Over-Speeding: A Common Offense During Diwali Rush

One of the most common traffic violations, especially during festive seasons like Diwali, is over-speeding. With increased traffic on the roads due to shopping, parties, and family visits, many drivers push the pedal a little too hard, hoping to reach their destination faster. Speeding not only puts your life and others’ lives in danger but can also lead to heavy fines.

How to Avoid Speeding Violations:

• Always stick to speed limits displayed on road signs.
• Drive slower in congested areas like markets or near temples, where there are pedestrians.
• Use your vehicle’s cruise control feature to maintain a steady speed, especially on highways.

If you happen to receive a challan for over-speeding, it’s crucial to check your challan details immediately and pay the fine to avoid any penalties. You can check and pay your fines online via various official websites or mobile apps.

2. Ignoring Traffic Signals and Lights

During Diwali, the streets are more crowded than usual, and the excitement of the season can lead to impatient drivers who jump red lights or ignore traffic signals altogether. This is one of the most dangerous violations, especially at intersections, where accidents are more likely to occur. Ignoring signals could also attract a hefty challan from traffic police.

How to Avoid Signal Violations:

• Always stop at red lights, even if there’s no traffic.
• Be extra cautious around busy intersections or areas near markets and shopping malls.
• Stay patient and avoid trying to "beat the light" to save time.

If you’ve received a challan for jumping a red light, it’s important to pay it promptly. You can easily check your challan status online and complete the payment using online portals for faster resolution.

3. Parking Violations: A Frequent Offense During Diwali Shopping

With the festive rush at shopping malls, local markets, and temples, parking violations are inevitable during Diwali. Many people park their vehicles illegally in no-parking zones, on sidewalks, or block driveways to be close to their destination, leading to parking challans.

How to Avoid Parking Violations:

• Always park your vehicle in designated parking spaces.
• Look for paid parking lots around shopping areas or festivals.
• Avoid double parking or parking in restricted zones to prevent fines.

In case you’ve made a parking violation, it’s easy to check your parking challan status online and make a quick payment to avoid penalties.

4. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (Drunk Driving)

Drunk driving is one of the most dangerous offenses, particularly during festive times like Diwali, when drinking and driving can increase dramatically. Police are vigilant during the Diwali season, and if caught, you could face serious consequences, including license suspension or heavy fines.

How to Avoid Drunk Driving Violations:

• Designate a driver if you plan on drinking during Diwali celebrations.
• Use ride-sharing apps (Uber, Ola) or public transportation to avoid the risk of driving under the influence.
• Organize a sober ride for friends and family attending Diwali parties.

If you are caught drunk driving, expect to receive a challan. You can check your challan online and pay the fine via government portals.

5. Non-Compliance with Vehicle Documentation

Driving without the necessary documents, such as RC (Registration Certificate), PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificate, or insurance, is another traffic violation that can lead to a challan during the festive season. Many people are in a rush to get out and celebrate, often forgetting to carry or renew their documents.

How to Avoid Documentation Violations:

• Carry your documents with you at all times, including your driver’s license, RC, PUC certificate, and insurance papers.
• Make sure all your documents are up-to-date, especially the PUC certificate, which is mandatory for all vehicles.
• If your vehicle’s insurance has expired, get it renewed before hitting the road during Diwali.

If you’re caught without proper documentation, you could face fines. To avoid any issues, check your challan online after a random police check and pay fines to avoid complications.

How to Check Your Challan and Pay Traffic Fines Online

If you happen to receive a challan during your festive travels, the process of checking and paying fines online has become much easier. Instead of waiting in long lines at the police station, you can now complete these tasks from the comfort of your home.

Steps to Check Your Challan Online:

1. Visit your state's official traffic police website or use the Parivahan Sewa website.
2. Enter your vehicle number or challan number to view the details.
3. Verify the violation and the amount of the fine.

Steps to Pay Your Challan Online:

1. After verifying the challan, click on the pay challan option.
2. Choose your payment method (credit/debit card, net banking, etc.).
3. Complete the transaction and save a copy of the receipt for future reference.

You can also use mobile apps like Paytm, Google Pay, or your state's official traffic apps to pay fines directly.

Conclusion: Celebrate Safely and Stay Fine-Free

Diwali is a time of joy, but with the festivities come extra caution on the roads. From speeding to ignoring traffic signals and illegal parking, traffic violations during Diwali can lead to challans and unnecessary fines. By following simple precautions, you can avoid these violations and celebrate the festival with peace of mind.

And if you do receive a challan, don’t panic! The challan check and challan payment process is easier than ever before. So, make sure your vehicle is roadworthy, your documents are up-to-date, and most importantly, celebrate responsibly.

This Diwali, let’s ensure that we enjoy the festivities with family and friends without the burden of fines and penalties. Stay safe, stay informed, and keep the spirit of Diwali alive, stress-free!