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The new Road Transport Act has come into force, introducing stricter penalties for unsafe driving, unlicensed driving, speeding and other traffic violations.
Mariyam Adheela
Male’: The newly introduced Road Transport Act has come into effect today, bringing new rules and higher penalties aimed at improving road safety in the Maldives.
Driving carelessly or in a dangerous manner is now an offence. It carries a fine of MVR25,000 to MVR100,000.
If the offence causes injury or death, criminal charges may be filed. A driver’s licence can also be suspended for five to 10 years.
Allowing an unlicensed person or a child to control a vehicle is also prohibited. The offence carries a fine of MVR25,000 to MVR50,000, with higher penalties if someone is injured.
Driving an unregistered vehicle will result in a MVR10,000 fine for the driver and MVR1,000 for the vehicle owner.
Driving without a licence will carry fines starting at MVR1,000. The fine increases for repeated offences, and the vehicle can be detained for up to 30 days.
Speeding will also carry higher fines. The penalties range from MVR2,000 to MVR5,000 for the first three offences, with increased fines for further violations.
Other offences covered by the law include illegal parking, blocking emergency vehicles, failing to follow traffic signs and using communication devices while driving.
The law also introduces a demerit point system for traffic offences.
Drivers who receive points may be required to complete a driver education programme within two years.
Vehicles may also be towed if parking fines exceed MVR5,000. The vehicle can remain under police custody until the outstanding amount is paid.
The law also holds vehicle owners responsible when the drive
