BENGALURU
In an unusual enforcement action, Hennur Traffic Police imposed a hefty fine of Rs 1.11 lakh on a student for illegally modifying his car’s silencer, despite the vehicle being worth just Rs 70,000.
The student, a Kerala native, was driving on Hennur Road near Bharatiya City on January 2 when passersby alerted police after videos of the car emitting flames and loud noise went viral on social media. Acting promptly, traffic police traced and seized the vehicle.
Rather than filing a case, the police referred the matter to the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Upon inspection, RTO officials confirmed the silencer had been illegally modified, producing excessive noise and sparks, creating a public nuisance and violating the Motor Vehicles Act.
Despite attempts by some politicians to influence authorities for a minimal fine, the RTO imposed the maximum permissible penalty of Rs 1,11,500. The student paid the fine, and the vehicle was released.
A senior officer said the action sends a clear message to vehicle owners: illegal modifications that endanger public safety will not be tolerated. The incident serves as a warning to anyone flouting traffic and safety regulations.