Indian Penal Code, 1860
Section 283
repealedDanger or obstruction in public way or line of navigation
Whoever, by doing any act, or by omitting to take order with any property in his possession or under his charge, causes danger, obstruction or injury to any person in any public way or public line of navigation, shall be punished, with fine which may extend to two hundred rupees.
Why this exists
Public roads and waterways must stay safe and usable for everyone. This section covers everyday hazards — leaving a cart, debris, or unsafe structure blocking a road, or letting a stray object endanger passers-by. The fine is modest, reflecting its role as a general catch-all nuisance provision for lower-level negligence. Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, this offence continues under a renumbered section.