Surprise checks conducted by officials from the Enforcement Wing of the Regional Transport Department led to at least 45 vehicles being fined to the tune of Rs.1.39 lakh here on Saturday.
The inspections were conducted near Othakadai, Sivaganga Junction and Tirumangalam toll gate from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.
According to N. Ravichandran, Regional Transport Officer (RTO) of the Enforcement Wing, the fine was imposed on vehicles for over-speeding, overloading, non-possession of fitness and pollution certificates.
Seven tourist taxis, four maxi-cabs, four goods vehicles and three omni buses were among those fined for speeding.
Speed radar guns were used to determine the speed of the vehicles, Mr. Ravichandran said.
A total of Rs.77,100 was collected from 21 lorries that were over-loaded, the transport authorities said.
“At least 10 vehicles, including lorries and taxis, did not have pollution certificates. Two autorickshaws did not have fitness certificates. Vehicles that were plying without remitting road tax were also fined,” he added.
On Friday too, Regional Transport Officers of North, Central and South conducted surprise inspections in the city and imposed fine on as many as 131 autorickshaws, mostly share autorickshaws, to the tune of Rs.52,7000.
Officials said the inspections were conducted near the flower market at Mattuthavani, Arasaradi and Government Rajaji Hospital.
A total of 23 autorickshaws were detained for having seat arrangements in violation of the Motor Vehicles Act and for ferrying more passengers than what was permitted under the Act.
Memos were issued to seven mini-door vehicles that were carrying goods in excess of the permissible level.
The inspections ordered by the Madurai Collector and Commissioner of Police will continue in the coming weeks, officials said.
