Under the new Land Transport Act, motorists who fail to stop and yield to pedestrians crossing at designated zebra crossings will be penalized with an MVR 1,500 fine and demerit point deductions from their driving license.

Submitted to Parliament by the government, passed on October 26, and ratified by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on Monday, the new legislation explicitly prohibits vehicles from proceeding without stopping or giving right of way to individuals using zebra crossings.

Additionally, the Act prohibits driving or parking any type of land vehicle on sidewalks, pavements, or designated pedestrian areas within the land transport network. Violators will be subject to a fine of MVR 750 alongside license demerit point deductions.

Although the President has ratified the legislation and published it in the Government Gazette, the Act will officially take effect 30 days after its date of publication.