Overspeeding challans in Himachal soar 7x in 2025

Himachal Pradesh is witnessing an alarming spike in overspeeding incidents, with challans issued in the first four months of 2025 soaring over seven times compared to the same period last year. From January 1 to April 30, a staggering 1,28,472 overspeeding challans were issued across the state, compared to just 17,260 in 2024.

Overspeeding continues to be a major contributor to road accidents in the state. In the same four-month span this year, 216 people lost their lives in road accidents — many triggered by reckless driving. Disturbingly, videos of rash driving frequently go viral on social media, drawing widespread public criticism.

District-wise data reveals Mandi topping the list with 42,237 challans, followed by Kullu (23,857) and Bilaspur (23,083). Other districts with notable figures include Sirmaur (9,799), Hamirpur (8,096), and Una (7,365). Even remote regions like Lahaul-Spiti (937) and Kinnaur (2,493) have reported worrying numbers.

Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Traffic, Tourism and Railways (TTR), Vinod Kumar, stated that overspeeding remains the leading cause of road mishaps. He emphasised the need for public cooperation in adhering to speed limits. “The police are taking stringent action and deploying modern technologies to regulate traffic and penalize violators,” he said.

To raise awareness, the police have installed LED display boards flashing road safety messages across the state. “These cautionary messages aim to influence driver behavior and prevent accidents,” Kumar added.

Authorities are urging drivers to act responsibly behind the wheel and make road safety a shared priority.