Parliament passes Land Transport Bill introducing MVR 100 fine for illegal road crossings

Parliament on Wednesday passed the Land Transport Bill, which will impose a fine of MVR 100 for illegal road crossings.

The bill, submitted by PNC Kurendhoo MP Mohamed Shamin Habeeb on behalf of the government, was passed with 47 votes in favour and 12 against.

Under Article 46 of the bill, the Ministry must set out the rules and standards pedestrians must follow when using the road. These regulations will specify how pedestrians should use the roadway, the circumstances in which the roadway may be used instead of the pavement, the rules for crossing the road, and other requirements to ensure pedestrian safety.

Article 131 states that individuals who cross the road in violation of these rules will be fined MVR 100.

The bill also states that the Act will not apply to military vehicles used for military purposes from the date of enactment. However, military vehicles must still be operated in a manner that ensures the safety of civilians and other road users.

The bill passed on Wednesday will become law once it receives presidential assent. The Act will come into force 30 days after the President approves it.