Sir,

Many have expressed their observations on traffic violations in the city limits in the recent past. I wish to highlight the menace of high beam lights.

With the increase in traffic and the impatience of the users on the road, use of high beam is the most dangerous violation. Impacting the one other than the violator. Hence, I feel this should attract immediate attention of the Traffic Police.

Once, a Policeman told me that it is difficult to catch the violators when the road is dark, to which I had suggested to him to catch them at traffic signals, as they normally do not lower even there. Police can also use the red glowing batons to stop the vehicles.

The most vulnerable group impacted by this is senior citizens who cannot move out in their vehicles after sunset. Being a cultural city, various programmes begin only after 6 pm which is the most preferred entertainment to senior citizens.  

Use of multiple headlights fixed at different heights and of varying intensity and colour is another violation. I understand that as per rules, halogen lights are permitted only as original fitting.

In many States, headlights with LED bulbs are banned. Shrill horns beyond permissible decibels mostly by private buses has almost become a norm. The recklessness at almost all circles is so chaotic that one has to break the law to negotiate his way.  

I request the concerned to create public awareness on these issues and simultaneously enforce it by imposing heavy penalties. I have observed that Police have certain fixed points as checkpoints to check violations. But a habitual violator is intelligent enough to watch the spot from a distance and change the route swiftly, endangering other commuters.

In my opinion Traffic Police should concentrate on those violations which harm an innocent person rather than those such as helmet-less riders, seatbelt-less drivers or expired DL holders. Imposing a penalty on high beam users often will create an awareness among public and may give some relief to others.

General public has an equally responsible role in observing traffic regulations. This will reduce the burden on the Police, which I believe is already overburdened.  

—K.S. Rao

Mysuru

8.7.2026