Mauritius Launches Penalty Point System after 123 Road Deaths Recorded in 2025

The Mauritian government has announced the imminent introduction of a penalty point system and a total digital overhaul of public transport, following a tragic start to 2026. A fatal collision in Quartier-Militaire on New Year’s Day, which left one person dead and six injured, has underscored the urgency of state interventions.

It follows a sobering 2025 in which 123 people lost their lives in 115 fatal accidents.

While this represents a slight decrease from the 134 deaths recorded in 2024, Chief Inspector Mohit Ramma of the Road Safety Unit warned that the toll remains “heavy.”

Crackdown on Drivers

Authorities are banking on the new penalty point system to curb reckless behaviour. Data reveals that 4,949 drivers were disqualified for offences in 2025, following 5,363 disqualifications the previous year.

A significant concern for the Traffic Branch is the prevalence of single-vehicle accidents. Of the 115 fatal crashes last year, approximately 30 involved drivers veering off the road or hitting parapets without any other vehicle involved.

“With penalty points, people will be more aware of the consequences,” Chief Inspector Ramma said, noting that even fixed speed cameras have failed to deter some motorists.

Public Transport Revolution

A major reform of the bus sector is scheduled between 2025 and 2029 to safeguard the 450,000 passengers who use the network daily.

With 1,991 buses currently operating across Mauritius and Rodrigues, the state is investing Rs 100 million into modernisation, on top of Rs 2.47 billion in annual subsidies.

Key changes for the 2026-2029 period include:

• Mandatory Code of Conduct: Stricter licensing for drivers, conductors, and starters.
• High-Tech Surveillance: Fleet Management Systems, GPS, and CCTV will be fitted to all regular buses.
• Cashless Systems: Introduction of digital ticketing to reduce fraud and improve efficiency.

A “Long-Term Fight”

The police have vowed to maintain a daily presence on the roads beyond the festive season, specifically targeting Grand-Baie and Flic-en-Flac.

Special focus will be directed toward vulnerable groups. In 2025, 46 senior citizens died on the roads, prompting a new collaboration with the Social Security department.

Furthermore, road safety education is being digitised in primary schools to instil responsibility in the next generation.

The authorities have also issued a plea for “collective responsibility” after it was revealed that 18 victims in 2025 had no driving licence at all, while 13 held only learner permits.

Chief Inspector Ramma urged parents and businesses not to lend vehicles to unqualified drivers, describing road safety as a “long-term fight” against the backdrop of an ever-increasing national fleet.

Source: Defi Media