Sherab Lhamo
A total of 25,795 traffic violations, with 3,459 cases attributed to driving under the influence of alcohol, were recorded during the fiscal year 2023-24.
Other significant infractions include speeding (2,954 cases), unlicensed driving (2,827 cases), and failing to obey parking rules (2,617 cases).
Thimphu was the epicentre of traffic offenses, accounting for 61 percent of violations, correlating with the fact that 60 percent of the vehicle population is concentrated in the capital. Phuentsholing and Gelephu followed with 12.7 percent and 13.3 percent of violations respectively.
A total 1,543 cases of drivers operating vehicles with invalid or expired registration certificates were recorded.
Other recorded violations totalled 4,900 cases, which included issues such as using mobile phones while driving, having an invalid roadworthiness certificate, failing to have a licensed accompanying driver for learner drivers, and carrying excess passengers than the specified seating capacity.
An official from the Bhutan Construction and Transport Authority (BCTA) said that the actual number of violations could have been higher if not for challenges like insufficient equipment and human resources.
To address these issues, the BCTA plans to enhance public awareness and strengthen enforcement, specifically targeting the four most common traffic violations—driving under the influence, speeding, unlicensed driving, and parking violations.
The official said they are stopping cars to create awareness among drivers.
Starting September 24, the BCTA and the Traffic Division conducted joint inspections in Thimphu to enforce traffic regulations, focusing on illegal parking and unauthorised vehicle modifications. These inspections aim to promote road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and ensure smoother traffic flow.
Section 423 of the Road Safety Transport Regulations prohibits inappropriate billboards, banners, and stickers on vehicle exteriors without proper authorisation.
Since February 2024, the BCTA has trained 360 officials, including traffic police, along with 1,417 taxi and vehicle drivers on regulations to enhance compliance and road safety.