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MVA 1988 (Amended 2019)ORIGINALChapter V

Section 114

Power to Restrict Use of Vehicles

Control of Traffic
Fine: ₹500Compoundable: YesEndorsement: No
BARE ACT PROVISION

Legal Text

The State Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, prohibit or restrict, subject to such exceptions and conditions as may be specified in the notification, the use of motor vehicles generally, or of a specified class or description of motor vehicles, on roads generally, or on particular roads, either absolutely or subject to such conditions as may be specified in the notification.

Simplified Explanation

Section 114 grants State Governments broad powers to restrict vehicle use on specific roads — a provision with wide contemporary application. Common exercises of this power include: odd-even vehicle schemes (Delhi's odd-even car rationing during severe pollution episodes); heavy vehicle bans on city roads during peak hours; restriction of diesel vehicles above a certain age (Delhi NCR's NGT-mandated restrictions); seasonal restrictions on mountain roads (Char Dham route heavy vehicle restrictions); construction-zone vehicle diversions; and emergency traffic management during events. Violations of Section 114 notifications are penalised under Section 177 (general penalty — ₹500 or as prescribed).

Historical Context

Section 114 has become increasingly important with the use of vehicle restriction as an air quality management tool. Delhi's odd-even scheme, though legally challenged, was upheld as a valid exercise of Section 114 powers.

Critical Changes

NGT and Supreme Court orders have driven State Governments to use Section 114 powers for pollution control.

Delhi's odd-even scheme — validated as Section 114 exercise.

BS-III vehicle bans in certain areas — Section 114 power.

Practical Scenarios

"Delhi's ban on diesel vehicles over 10 years old in NCR — Section 114 notification."
"Heavy vehicle ban on Mumbai's Western Express Highway during peak hours — Section 114 notification."

Common Queries

Yes — the Delhi Government's odd-even schemes are exercised under Section 114 powers to restrict vehicle use on roads for traffic management and pollution control. Courts have upheld these as valid exercises of State Government powers.