Over 69,000 Driving Licences Suspended in Vizag in 2025
More than 69,000 motorists in Visakhapatnam had their driving licences suspended in 2025 as authorities tightened enforcement of traffic rules. Officials said many motorists were unaware that even a first-time offence could lead to licence suspension.
The sharp increase in suspensions was linked to stricter monitoring by traffic police and greater use of technology. The Regional Transport Authority took action against violations such as riding without a helmet, triple riding, drunk driving, and rash or negligent driving. In comparison, about 20,000 licences were suspended in 2024.
Helmet violations formed the largest share of cases. Despite the city showing better helmet compliance than many other parts of Andhra Pradesh, nearly 60,000 two-wheeler riders lost their licences between January and December 2025 for not wearing helmets. Officials said helmet non-compliance accounts for nearly 30 to 35 per cent of road accident deaths in the State every year. About 9,000 motorists were penalised for drunk driving, rash driving, and other serious offences during the same period.
Deputy Transport Commissioner Ch. Srinivas said licences of nearly 69,000 motorists were suspended for periods ranging from three to six months in 2025. “Visakhapatnam has recorded the highest number of licence suspensions for helmet violations in the State, which shows strict enforcement of safety rules,” he said.
RTA officials also flagged cases of repeat violations. Around 100 motorists, whose licences were already under suspension, were caught driving during the year. They were booked for driving without a valid licence and fined.
Additional DCP (Traffic) K. Praveen said wearing helmets is mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act, with a fine of Rs. 1,035 for violations. “Details of violators are sent to the RTA for licence suspension. Repeat offenders may face permanent cancellation,” he said.
To improve road safety and reduce fatalities, police implemented the No Helmet, No Petrol rule across the city from January 1, 2026. Enforcement against drunk driving and rash driving has also been stepped up from the beginning of the year.