New Traffic Law: Petrol, Diesel Sales Slump In Fine-Jittery Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Following strict enforcement of the new Motor Vehicle Act, demand for petrol and diesel has fallen in the state. The number of vehicles plying on the roads too has come down with people preferring public transport to avoid heavy penalties.

According to a report published by ANI, there has been 16.5 lakh litres reduction in fuel sale since the enforcement of the law. This has resulted in a loss of Rs 5 crore to the state exchequer, the report stated.

The reduction in petrol sale is 4 lakh litres per day and that of diesel is 12 lakh litres.

The new rules have pushed the panic button among motorists, who are seen travelling by public transport instead of personal vehicles. City’s premier bus service ‘Mo Bus’ recorded its best ever traffic recently. Auto-rickshaw drivers are also staying off the roads in fear of the hefty fines.

In light of this, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday announced 3 months relaxation for people to allow them ready the relevant papers. He also directed the enforcement authorities to go soft on fine collection and make people aware of the rules.