Fake traffic fine notice using Transport Department logo warns motorists need to be careful

The Department of Transport Management (DoTM) has alerted vehicle owners and drivers that a fake traffic fine notice is being widely shared on social media using the department’s name and logo.

According to the department’s clarification, the leaflet claims to list traffic penalties under a so‑called "Motor Yatayat Tatha Traffic Regulation 2074" and has gone viral since late Asar. The DoTM has clearly stated that no such law or regulation exists in Nepal. The name of the regulation printed on the leaflet is made‑up, and the logo and name shown for the department are also not genuine.

What law really applies for traffic fines?

The department has reminded the public that current traffic penalties are still based on:

• "Motor Vehicles and Transport Management Act, 2049"
• "Motor Vehicles and Transport Management Rules, 2054"

Until a new transport law is formally approved and implemented, these existing act and rules remain fully in force. Any traffic fines you are asked to pay by traffic police should be according to these legal provisions, not according to the viral leaflet.

Government has been preparing a new transport bill with higher fines and stricter penalties, but this is still in the process stage. For now, drivers and vehicle owners need to follow the current act and rules and rely only on official information from government agencies and traffic police.

Advice for Nepali vehicle users

The DoTM has requested all citizens not to like, share or promote unverified traffic fine information on social media. Sharing such fake content can:

• Confuse motorists about actual fines and legal duties
• Reduce public trust in transport and traffic institutions

If you receive any new list of fines or traffic rules online, the safest step is to:

• Check it against information from traffic police or government notices
• Verify whether the law or regulation mentioned really exists
• Ignore and report posts that look suspicious or use poor‑quality or mismatched logos

Possible legal action for spreading fake notices

The department has also reminded the public that using fake government logos, copying official names, or spreading misleading notices online can be punishable under existing laws related to electronic transactions and copyright. People who knowingly create or circulate such false traffic fine leaflets may face legal investigation and action.

For Nepal AutoMart readers, the key takeaway is simple: follow the current Act 2049 and Rules 2054, and trust only official sources for traffic fine information. Do not base your driving decisions or payment of fines on any viral leaflet claiming to show new penalty rates unless it is confirmed by the authorities.