Traffic Signal Rules in India

India has one of the largest road networks in the world. It is also the world’s third-largest market for automobiles in terms of sales. Traffic signals are one of the many aspects required to keep all these millions of cars moving through this complex and even more complicated road system.

Most people define road travel in India as “organised chaos,” which means that to a casual observer, the conditions seem entirely chaotic with order being kept at a deeper level. Traffic signal regulations are the backbone of road safety in India, structuring traffic flows.

The traffic signals direct pedestrians and vehicles. For your safety and that of others on the road, you need to familiarize yourself with the basics of traffic signs in India, no matter how experienced a driver you are or just getting your learner’s license. With this, we “drive” into traffic signal regulations, types and definitions of traffic signal regulations for road safety and how to obey the signals. 

Benefits Of Having Traffic Signals in India

• Traffic lights tell cars where to go along the way at the junction. 
• Road signs are supposed to organize and prevent occurrences of fatal accidents. 
• All the three colors being used in traffic light indication are red, yellow and green. 
• It is necessary to stop when the vehicles are at red; to slow down when they are at yellow; and to continue when they are at green. 
• Traffic light signal laws use the colors red, yellow and green as they are more conspicuous and have a longer wavelength than other colors. 
• Traffic rules apply to all regions: roads and especially crossroads. 
• Traffic signal color lights enable the seamless flow of traffic. 
• Traffic signals cross same rules at every corner of the world.

What are the rules of traffic signals in India?

Traffic lights, as the names suggest, are essentially lights used to control traffic. They indicate how individuals on foot or with motor vehicles are expected to behave on the road with common rules for different junctions. Their meaning is universal even though the lights or signals differ and the regulations are different in every part of the world. Let’s begin the discussion on traffic signalization with the most primitive device- traffic lights- widely employed in every part of the planet.

Traffic light rules in India

You have seen a traffic signal if you have ever been in the roads. It is mostly fixed in a yellow box along with a set of components as power supply, sensors, signal heads and controller. The signal heads are the part of these installations which we see hanging from poles at various junctions.

All are made up of three types of lights: green, yellow (amber) and red. Each color has a definite name for various actions or restrictions for the pedestrian-administration or the driver, respectively.

Red light traffic rule: Stop

Indication of complete stop is when there is a red light lit. Vehicles must stop before the authorized stop line at crossings. This is the time when pedestrians can safely cross.

Red light flashing

Flashing red light warns you to exercise caution. It indicates to stop, look at approaching traffic and move slowly. Normally, this traffic signal is used at railways or places where traffic flow is very low.

Yellow light traffic rule: Pause

It will soon turn red from green, as the warning yellow light already declares. With this yellow signal, a driver should slow down to prepare for stopping. It should also remind pedestrians to be alert not to cross.

When a yellow light comes on while a person is halfway into a junction, then he should not stop in the middle of the road but keep going without preventing incoming traffic from flowing and then continue crossing.

Flashing yellow light

A flashing yellow light indicates to go slow and then proceed further. It is common in the early hours of some locations, with bright sunny light and the streets having few vehicles, to switch to flashing yellows. The intention is to remind both pedestrian and vehicle to be extra careful and to be watchful.

Greenlight traffic rule: Go

When the incoming traffic has been stopped, a green light indicates that cars can move forward. Meanwhile, pedestrians should hold off until the green pedestrian signal or the red light is on.

The green arrow

On a traffic light, a green arrow that is illuminated indicates which way cars are allowed to travel. When combined with a red arrow, this kind of signal is used to control traffic flow in a specific direction.

Failing to stop at a red light might result in a traffic fine, which could be delivered as an e-challan. If you need help checking and paying these fines online, take a look at our comprehensive guide on e-challan payments

Types of traffic signal rules in India 

Safe driving on busy roads in India is only possible if one knows how to read and understand the traffic signal rules. Now that we have given the basic traffic light indications, let us discuss the different types of Indian traffic signal rules.

Traffic Control Signals

These are the most prevalent kind of traffic signals, with a red, yellow and green light layout, as was discussed in the preceding section. They are separated into the following categories based on how they operate: 

• Fixed time signals: The pre-programmed timings cause the red, yellow and green lights to switch on. These are chosen based on the volume of traffic on a specific route and are devoid of human interaction. 
• Manually operated signal: Where traffic volume fluctuates during the day, this kind of signal is employed. For a smooth traffic flow and to prevent stopping, they enable the traffic police to manually adjust the traffic light timings based on the circumstances. 
• Traffic Actuated Signal: This system allows the traffic police to adjust the traffic signal timings according to the volume of traffic. For example, the lights’ timings may vary according on the volume of traffic on the road.

Pedestrian signals

These signals, which frequently include the symbols “walk” and “don’t walk,” are made especially for pedestrians. In order to make the roads safer for pedestrians, they coordinate with traffic light signals. 

Flashing lights

At crossroads with little traffic, flashing red or yellow lights are employed to alert drivers to potential dangers. Another name for these is Special Signals. 

Arrow signals

Certain traffic actions, like left or right turns, are managed by these lights. They are employed when it is necessary to limit traffic flow in a specific direction. 

Different Types of Traffic Signs in India

In India, traffic signs must be followed. However, mandatory indicators are able to be adhered and above all essential. According to the Roadways and Traffic Department of India, a driver could be fined for disobeying the traffic signs and regulation. It ensures the free flow of traffic and makes pedestrians aware of speed limits, no-parking areas and vehicle movements on the road.

• Mandatory traffic signs

Traffic Signs	Meaning
Stop	Drivers should immediately stop after seeing this.
Give Way	Indicates the traffic to give way to the fellow traffic on the right.
Straight Prohibitor No Entry	Indicates restricted area.
Pedestrian Prohibited	Indicates the place is restricted for walking.
Horn Prohibited	Honking is restricted in areas marked with this sign.
No Parking	Restricts parking of vehicles in areas marked with this sign.
No Stopping or Standing	No vehicle or person should stand or stop at the locations marked with this sign.
Speed Limited	Following the mentioned speed limit is mandatory in these designated areas.
Right Hand Curve	Cautions the driver about a right-hand curve.
Left Hand Curve	Cautions the driver about a left hand curve.
Right Hair Pin Bend	Cautions about a sharp right turn.
Left Hair Pin Bend	Cautions about a sharp left turn.
Narrow Road Ahead	Cautions the driver about a narrow road.
Narrow Bridge	Indicates the driver about a narrow bridge on the road ahead.
Pedestrian Crossing	This sign indicates that pedestrians should cross the road.
School Ahead	Cautions the driver about a school nearby.
Round About	Indicates the driver about a circular intersection.
Dangerous Dip	Cautions the driver that there is a sharp dip nearby.
Hump or Rough	Cautions the driver about a hump nearby.
Barrier Ahead	Indicates to the driver that there is a barrier in the road ahead. e.g. Tolls

• Cautionary Traffic Signs

In India, cautionary signs, among other traffic indicators, alert vehicles to possible dangers or safety hazards up ahead. In accordance with the warning signs posted on the road, drivers should slow down or take the appropriate actions.

There are forty traffic signs in India that fall under the cautionary category, in case you were wondering.

Traffic Signs	Meaning
Right Hand Curve	Cautions the driver about a right hand curve.
Left Hand Curve	Cautions the driver about a left hand curve.
Right Hair Pin Bend	Cautions about a sharp right turn.
Left Hair Pin Bend	Cautions about a sharp left turn.
Right Reverse Bend	Caution the driver that there is a zigzag turn to the right.
Left Reverse Bend	Caution the driver that there is a zigzag turn to the left.
Steep Ascent	Indicates that there is a steep rising upwards nearby
Steep Descent	Indicates that there is a steep descending downwards nearby
Narrow Road Ahead	Indicates to the driver that the road ahead merges into a narrow road.
Road Wideness Ahead	Indicates to the driver that the road ahead widens.
Narrow Bridge	Indicates the driver about a narrow bridge on the road ahead.
Slippery Road	Cautions the driver that gravel or loose earth keeps falling on the road.
Cycle Crossing	Indicates that the road is meant for riding a bicycle.
Pedestrian Crossing	This sign indicates that pedestrians should cross the road.
School Ahead	Cautions the driver about a school nearby.
Men At Work	Indicates that labourers are working on the road ahead.
Cattle	Indicates the possibility of cattle on the road nearby.
Falling Rocks	Cautions the drivers that the road ahead is prone to falling rocks.
Ferry	Indicates the presence of ferry service.

Importance of traffic signal rules

Compliance with traffic laws and signals is fundamental in combatting road accidents and ensuring the safety of roads. It is the very basis for smooth flow of vehicles on a network of roads that have been efficient.

Accident Prevention: When all the road users follow the road safety rules, they are able to avoid accidents and injuries. When all this is oriented towards traffic signals, it helps to prevent further incidence of accidents since it regulates the movement of vehicles thereby making drivers and pedestrians keep their movements regulated on the road.

Assist in Traffic Congestion: Timely and effective traffic signals help in minimizing the traffic congestion by controlling the movement of vehicles thereby avoiding every bottleneck.

Pedestrian safety: Safety for pedestrian,sure the traffic signs and signals endorse simple indications and warnings for pedestrians so that they can safely cross roads at good moments. Thus, reducing the chances of the pedestrian having an accident.

What Are the Functions of Traffic Signs in India?

India’s numerous traffic signs serve a variety of purposes. These are

• Helps drivers by providing them with information about the route, nearby facilities, which lane to drive in, etc.
• Maintains traffic order
• Gives directions for the roads.
• Gives details on potholes, curves, crossroads, etc.
• Indicates the points of entry and departure.
• Provides information on parking lots.
• Explains how to avoid accidents by keeping the desired speed limit when crossing any institutes.

In India, there are numerous additional kinds of traffic signals, including:

• The traffic police hand signal.
• Road marking signs or pavement markings.
• Signals from traffic lights

Things to keep in mind while driving

1. At red lights: stop completely when there is not any traffic. 

2. When a yellow light is on: don’t try to rush through the light. The very best way is to immediately stop when the yellow light comes on.

3. Crosswalks must be given preference to pedestrians: this is always a good thing to do and it is especially true at zebra crossings.

4. Follow the arrow signals: these are the most important for the proper traffic pattern.

5. Be far away from unnecessary honks: this may raise stress levels and create noise pollution.

6. Indicate while taking a turn: it is necessary to use indicators when switching lanes or taking turns. This keeps other vehicles safer since they are notified about others’ movements.

Precautions To Follow At Traffic Signals

• Approach any crossing or intersection with caution and have your car slow down by the time all of the pedestrians have already crossed the zebra crossing. 
• While you are inside your vehicle, make sure to buckle your seatbelts, whether or not the vehicle has completely stopped or, for that matter, even if the traffic red light turns on. 
• Minimize honking; these sound a lot like noise pollution and are very annoying to hear. 
• Caution should be taken while driving on intersections and checking for other vehicles passing by to avoid any crashes. 
• While driving down a busy dual one-way street, one has to keep always to the left side of the road or else vehicles will flow from opposite sides into the right lane. 
• Lane discipline is essential for effective learning about traffic signals. Keep your car in the left or right lanes if your intention is to take a left or right turn, respectively. Keep the car in the center lane to pass through the intersection unbothered by the turning cars.
• One must drive with caution while approaching a crossing or within the intersection and should allow pedestrians to pass first if they are on the zebra crossing. 
• One should wear the seat belt while inside the vehicle at all times because even though the vehicle is at a stop, it can still be halted by a red signal. 
• Avoid all forms of unnecessary honking as it causes noise pollution and is very annoying to listen to. 
• Driving at an intersection should be done with great caution, looking for any other vehicles passing by to avoid any possible collision. 
• One should keep to the left while driving in a two-way road so that all motor vehicles coming from the opposite side can pass through using the right lane without interruption. 
• Lane discipline will also help ensure easy navigation in traffic signals. Keep your car in the left or right lanes if you intend to turn in that direction. Keep your car in the central lane to pass through the intersection unhindered by vehicles turning into the intersection.

An organization responsible for controlling traffic within roads is the Road Transport Authority or RTA. Similar to the light signs and signals, traffic lighting systems help control smooth movement of cars on roads. Traffic signals and lights are necessary for the safety of pedestrians and moving vehicles on the roads. 

With the daily increase in traffic and number of vehicles on the road, a system is now making it possible for a driver to get around blocked highways and prevent accidents. Understanding the different purposes of traffic signals and their importance helps a driver in a safer drive, while neglecting them can result in chaos and collisions.

Conclusion

According to FADA data, over 2.22 crore vehicles are said to have found their way to Indian garages in FY’23 and the trend has been going up in each year. Therefore, traffic congestion is going to worsen in the years to come. 

Responsible drivers and pedestrians can contribute to making the road network safer and more effective by understanding and complying with India’s road safety legislation beyond just obeying it to keep free of fines and penalties. Driving manners, patience and calmness all play a very big part, apart from of course knowing how to drive defensively.

Frequently Asked Questions On Traffic Signal Rules in India

Q1. What are the 5 traffic rules?

Ans1.Traffic Rules and Regulations – Traffic Do’s & Don’ts:

1. KEEP LEFT.
2. TURNING TO LEFT AND RIGHT.
3. PASSING TO THE RIGHT.
4. PASSING TO THE LEFT.
5. OVERTAKING PROHIBITED IN CERTAIN CASES.

Other rules:

• OVERTAKING NOT TO BE OBSTRUCTED.
• CAUTION AT ROAD JUNCTION.
• GIVING WAY TO TRAFFIC AT ROAD JUNCTION.

Q2. What are the rules of the traffic light system?

Ans2.India’s traffic signal regulations are as follows: The three colors of the traffic signal are red, yellow and green and it operates on light signals. Here: 

• Red: Indicates that vehicles must stop.
• Yellow: Vehicles must slow down.
• Green: Go ahead.

Q3. ट्रैफिक लाइट सिस्टम के नियम क्या हैं?

Ans3. ट्रैफ़िक सिग्नल लाइट सिग्नल पर काम करता है और इसमें तीन रंग शामिल हैं:

1. लाल: वाहनों को रुकना चाहिए।
2. पीला: वाहनों को धीमा करना चाहिए।
3. हरा: आगे बढ़ना चाहिए।

Q4. Can I cross in yellow light?

Ans4.It is advisable for pedestrians to use caution when crossing at a yellow signal. Waiting for the green pedestrian light is usually safer.

Q5. What is the challan for breaking the signal in India?

Ans5.The severity of the offense determines the fine, which can range from ₹500 to ₹5,000. Additionally, Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 stipulates that a person who jumps a traffic signal faces a maximum sentence of three months in prison. 

Q6. Can we turn left on a red light in India?

Ans6.“Free left turn” is generally forbidden in India. On the other hand, some cities expressly allow turning left at a red light. 

Q7. Which traffic signal is most important?

Ans7.One of the most significant and noticeable traffic indicators is the Give Way sign. It signals that the driver needs to halt right away. At checkpoints, police, traffic and toll officials frequently use it. 

Q8. What is traffic safety rules?

Ans8.Road safety rules include:

1. Never use a mobile phone while driving.
2. Wear seatbelts and helmets.
3. Walk carefully on sidewalks and cross only at zebra crossings.
4. Follow speed limits.
5. Never drink and drive.

Q9. What is the yellow signal?

Ans9. You are alerted to the impending appearance of the red signal by a yellow signal light.

• If it’s safe to do so, you should stop when you see the yellow light.
• If stopping is dangerous, move carefully and keep an eye out for cars coming into the intersection. 

Q10. Why are traffic rules?

Ans10.Ensuring safety is the primary goal of traffic laws and signage. They lessen traffic hazards, lower collision rates and safeguard motorists, passengers and pedestrians. 

Q11. तीन ट्रैफिक सिग्नल कौन से हैं?

Ans11. ट्रैफ़िक सिग्नल तीन रंगों के होते हैं:

1. लाल: रुकें।
2. पीला: धीमा करें।
3. हरा: आगे बढ़ें।

Q12. ट्रैफिक लाइट कैसे पढ़ते हैं?

Ans12.

1. लाल: रुकें, आगे न बढ़ें।
2. लाल और पीला: आगे बढ़ने के लिए तैयार रहें, लेकिन अभी न बढ़ें।
3. हरा: अगर चौराहा खाली है तो आगे बढ़ें।
4. पीला: रुकें, जब तक ऐसा करना असुरक्षित न हो।

Q13. ट्रैफिक में लाल बत्ती का उपयोग क्यों किया जाता है?

Ans13. लाल रंग की रोशनी की तरंगदैर्घ्य सबसे लंबी होती है और इसका प्रकीर्णन सबसे कम होता है। यह लंबी दूरी तक दिखाई देती है, जिससे खतरे से बचने में मदद मिलती है।

Q14. How many seconds is a yellow traffic light?

Ans14. There is plenty of time to slow down and halt before the red signal because yellow lights usually last three to six seconds.

Q15. What is signal jumping?

Ans15. Crossing a junction when the signal is red is known as “jumping a red light.” Traffic police stop offenders and give a challan for the offense.