As the number of vehicles continues to surge, especially in the capital, lane discipline remains one of the most ignored rules on the road. Traffic police records show that violations of lane-changing rules have been rising steadily for three consecutive years.
Lane discipline violations are on the rise in Thimphu, with traffic police recording 88 cases in 2023, increasing to 147 in 2024, and surging to 266 cases last year.
This year, 60 such cases, related to improper lane changing and failure to keep left, have already been reported so far.
“The numbers have risen due to our increased monitoring. As we also receive complaints, traffic police are patrolling various locations,” said Chencho Gyeltshen, Superintendent of Police, Thimphu Traffic Division.
Under Section 333 of the Road Safety and Transport Regulations 2021, drivers on double-lane roads must change lanes only where broken lines are drawn, use indicators, ensure safety, and give way to vehicles already signalling a lane change. Drivers who violate these rules can be fined Nu 700.
Additionally, all commercial vehicles, such as medium, heavy, and taxis, are advised to use the left lane.
“We have two lanes: a left lane and a right lane. The right lane is for faster vehicles, but only within the prescribed speed limit. The left lane is for slower traffic, while the right lane is also used for overtaking,” said Chencho Gyeltshen, Superintendent of Police, Thimphu Traffic Division.
He added that not following the lane-changing rules can cause accidents, disrupt traffic flow or lead to legal penalties and liability.
As part of ongoing awareness and enforcement, Thimphu police conducted inspections today, reminding drivers about proper lane-changing practices to improve road safety in the capital.
Further, the authorities caution that staying alert and following lane rules is key to smooth traffic and safer roads.
Kinzang Lhadon
Edited by Phub Gyem
