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MVA 1988 (Amended 2019)ORIGINALChapter V
Section 116
Traffic Signs
Control of Traffic
Fine: ₹500Compoundable: YesEndorsement: No
BARE ACT PROVISION
Legal Text
The Central Government or State Government may cause or permit traffic signs to be placed or erected on any road for the purpose of regulating motor vehicle traffic. It shall be the duty of every person using any road to obey every traffic sign.
Simplified Explanation
Section 116 establishes the legal authority for traffic sign systems throughout India and creates the legal obligation on all road users to obey them. Traffic signs in India are standardised under Schedule IV of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules 1989, which prescribes hundreds of signs in three categories: (1) Mandatory signs (red border/white background) — must be obeyed, e.g., no entry, stop, speed limit, no parking; (2) Cautionary/warning signs (yellow/white background) — warn of hazard ahead; and (3) Informatory signs (blue/green background) — direction, distance, facility information. Disobeying any mandatory traffic sign is an offence under Section 177. Traffic signals (traffic lights) derive their authority from Section 116 — running a red light is a direct violation. The 2019 Amendment enabled electronic/variable message signs and automated enforcement of sign violations (red light cameras).
Historical Context
India adopted the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals framework for standardising traffic signs. Despite standardisation, enforcement of sign violations — especially in urban areas — remains inconsistent.Critical Changes
Red light jumping automated enforcement cameras — legally backed by Section 116 + 2019 Amendment.
Variable message signs (VMS) on expressways — authorised under Section 116.
No-parking zone signage — violations now enforced through towing and fine.
Practical Scenarios
"Running a red light at a Mumbai intersection — Section 116/194B violation, ₹5,000 fine."
"Entering a 'No Entry' road — Section 116/177 violation, ₹500 fine."
"Parking under a 'No Parking' sign — Section 116/177 violation."
Common Queries
Yes — disobeying a traffic signal (red light) violates Section 116 read with Section 177 (₹500 penalty) or Section 194B if specifically charged for signal jumping (₹5,000 for first offence, ₹10,000 and licence confiscation for repeat). Red light cameras generate automatic challans.
The Central Government and State Governments may cause traffic signs to be erected under Section 116. In practice, NHAI erects signs on national highways, State PWD on state roads, and municipal corporations on city roads.