Smoking While Driving Banned in New Delhi

In response to almost 2,000 annual New Delhi traffic deaths in dangerous Indian traffic conditions shown in this amazing video, an Indian court has banned smoking while driving in New Delhi, the first measure of its kind in any major city worldwide.

Those caught smoking behind the wheel would pay 1400 ruppees (about $32), a heavy fine by local standards. Offenders caught more than five times would have their license revoked; the same fines apply to using a cell phone.

Existing traffic laws, which have not been updated since their introduction 20 years ago, are going largely ignored, for example seeing 6 people on a motorcycle, barefoot with no helmets, is common in India (see photo above). Read the full story here.

Hat tip to J. Howe.