A Dubai-based Indian entrepreneur’s post on a hefty traffic fine sparks a social media debate over India’s chaotic road rules
An Indian-origin entrepreneur based in Dubai has triggered a lively online debate after revealing that his friend was fined nearly ₹25,000 for not using indicators while changing lanes in the UAE. The revelation quickly went viral, with users drawing comparisons to India’s traffic situation and discussing whether such stringent enforcement could improve road discipline back home, reported hindustantimes.com.
Strict fine sparks online reactions
Soumendra Jena shared the incident on social media platform X, saying, “So a friend in Dubai just got 25,000 INR penalty for not using his indicator. Imagine if this level of strict rules come to India? Would be a game changer.”
He also shared a screenshot showing that Dubai Police issued the fine on October 3 for “Failure to use indicators when changing direction or turning/wrong overtaking.” The penalty amounted to 1,000 AED — roughly ₹25,000 in Indian currency.
Debate over India’s traffic discipline
Jena’s post ignited a discussion about India’s driving culture and enforcement system. Some users questioned whether such heavy fines would even be feasible in India. “Do people even have money to pay such fines? Or will there be mass bankruptcy as most people live on loans?” one user asked.
Others expressed concern that high penalties could lead to more corruption. “Unless this is automated, this kind of fine will only increase bribes to traffic police,” wrote another user, referring to past experiences of inflated bribe demands following stricter traffic laws.
Several users also praised Dubai’s robust infrastructure, pointing out how proper road design and strict rules go hand in hand. “Dubai has incredible infrastructure — wide lanes, working traffic lights, clear road markings, and well-lit streets,” one user commented. Another added, “In India, people often blame potholes or taxes instead of acknowledging poor civic sense.”
