Bengaluru: The Bengaluru Traffic Police have imposed a hefty fine of ₹1.1 lakh on the owner of a modified first-generation Honda City sedan after the vehicle was caught performing dangerous stunts on public roads, including emitting flames from its exhaust. The action has once again brought the spotlight on the strict enforcement of motor vehicle laws related to illegal modifications and reckless driving.
Video of flame-spitting car goes viral
The incident came to light after a video of the modified Honda City surfaced on social media and was later shared by the Bengaluru Traffic Police through their official account. The footage shows the sedan being revved aggressively on a public road, resulting in flames shooting out of the exhaust along with an extremely loud noise. The visuals also included images of the penalty notice issued to the vehicle owner, clearly indicating fines amounting to ₹1.1 lakh for multiple violations.
In the video, passers-by can be seen visibly disturbed by the deafening sound, with some covering their ears due to the intensity of the noise produced by the modified exhaust system. The police stated that such acts not only violate the law but also pose a serious threat to public safety.
Police issue strong warning against stunts and modifications
Sharing the video, the Bengaluru Traffic Police reiterated that public roads are not meant for stunts or unsafe demonstrations. In their post, the department said, “Public roads are not the place to perform stunts. It is illegal to modify your vehicle’s exhaust to create sparks or fire. Remember, you will have to pay a price for your stunts.”
The message was also posted in Kannada, underlining the department’s intent to reach a wider local audience and discourage motorists from engaging in similar behaviour. Officials stressed that vehicle modifications that alter the original specifications approved by the manufacturer are illegal under the Motor Vehicles Act unless explicitly endorsed by the registering authority.
Vehicle confiscated, fine status unclear
Following the incident, the official social media handle of the Bengaluru Traffic Police also shared another image showing the same Honda City confiscated by authorities, with a police officer standing beside the vehicle. While the fine has been issued, it has not yet been clarified whether the vehicle owner has paid the penalty or whether further legal proceedings are underway.
Police sources indicated that confiscation is a standard procedure in cases where vehicles are found to be dangerously modified or used in a manner that endangers public safety. Such vehicles are typically released only after compliance with legal requirements, which may include removing illegal modifications and paying the prescribed fines.
Extensive visual and mechanical modifications noted
Based on the visuals shared by the police, the Honda City had undergone several cosmetic and mechanical changes. These included an aftermarket paint job with bold graphics, an oversized rear wing, custom alloy wheels and fully tinted windows. More significantly, the exhaust system appeared to have been altered to produce flames and excessive noise, a modification that is explicitly prohibited under Indian law.
The act of revving the engine to intentionally emit flames suggests tampering with the exhaust and possibly the engine control unit (ECU). Such modifications not only violate emission norms but also contribute to noise pollution and increase the risk of accidents.
Indian law and vehicle modifications
Under Indian motor vehicle regulations, most modifications are considered illegal unless approved by the registering authority and endorsed on the registration certificate. Mechanical changes, especially those affecting the engine, exhaust, chassis or emission systems, are treated seriously due to their impact on safety and the environment.
Over the years, traffic police across major cities have frequently cracked down on modified vehicles, issuing fines and seizing cars and bikes that do not conform to legal standards. Social media is replete with instances of motorists being penalised for loud exhausts, altered body structures and unauthorised performance upgrades.
Enthusiast culture versus legal boundaries
Despite the legal restrictions, car modification remains popular among automobile enthusiasts in India. Older cars such as the Honda City, Honda Civic, Volkswagen Polo, Maruti Suzuki Gypsy and Maruti Suzuki Ignis are often modified for performance or aesthetic appeal. Common changes include aftermarket exhausts, ECU remaps and upgrades aimed at improving engine breathing and power output.
There is also a segment of enthusiasts who modify vehicles for off-road use, focusing on suspension upgrades, tyres and protective equipment. However, experts point out that such modifications are meant for closed tracks or designated off-road zones and not for use on public roads.
Conclusion
The Bengaluru Traffic Police’s action against the flame-spitting Honda City serves as a strong reminder that public roads are governed by strict safety and legality norms. While vehicle customisation may be a passion for many, authorities have made it clear that stunts, illegal modifications and reckless behaviour will attract severe penalties. With fines running into lakhs of rupees and the possibility of vehicle seizure, motorists are being urged to prioritise safety, legality and responsibility over thrill-seeking on city roads.