Chittoor police intensify crackdown against underage driving amid rising accidents

The police have intensified enforcement against underage driving across Chittoor district, as the violation continues to pose a serious threat to teenagers and other road users, Superintendent of Police (SP) Tushar Dudi said on Sunday.

Speaking to the media here, the SP said that minor drivers were involved in nine fatal road accidents and four non-fatal accidents in the district between January and July this year. In 2025, underage driving claimed 11 lives, while eight non-fatal accidents were also reported. “This road safety violation highlights the risks associated with allowing minors to take vehicles onto public roads,” Mr. Tushar Dudi said.

“To prevent this dangerous practice, special police teams are being formed to step up surveillance and enforcement against violations. Till July 2026, six e-challans were issued for minor driving, attracting a total penalty of ₹30,210. In 2025, police issued 281 e-challans and collected ₹1.50 lakh in fines,” the SP said.

Mr. Tushar Didi urged parents not to give motorcycles or cars to their minor children for commuting to schools and colleges or for driving practice. He warned that allowing minors to drive would not only endanger their lives but also put other road users at risk.

“We have already issued warnings against minors driving motor vehicles. If this continues, vehicle owners and parents will face legal action, and the vehicles are liable for confiscation, besides penalties,” the SP said.

“Parents, educational institutions and the public are requested to cooperate with police in curbing underage driving. Greater parental supervision and strict adherence to traffic rules will greatly reduce road accidents,” Tushar Dudi said.