Mandatory Signs

One Way Sign

Shape: Circular (octagonal for Stop, inverted triangle for Give Way)  ·  Colour: White with red border (prohibitory); blue with white symbol (positive mandatory, e.g. compulsory turn, keep left)

Traffic must flow in one direction only — the direction shown by the arrow.

What It Means

A One Way sign indicates that all traffic must travel in the single direction shown by the arrow. One-way systems are common in busy city centres, narrow lanes, and parking areas to improve traffic flow and reduce conflicts. Entering a one-way road from the wrong end is effectively the same as driving on the wrong side — a high-risk head-on collision scenario that happens frequently in India.

📍 Where You'll See It

At entrances to one-way streets, lanes in parking garages, tunnels with separated bores, and certain urban road systems.

What You Must Do

Enter from the correct end only. Verify direction from the arrow before entering. If you realise you are going wrong way, stop immediately and carefully reverse out.

⚠️ Common Mistake

Entering from the wrong end "just for a moment" to reach a nearby destination. This puts you directly in the path of correct-flow traffic.

⚖️ Legal Note

Violation: Sec. 184 MV Act (dangerous driving). Fine: ₹1,000–₹5,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the One Way sign mean?
Traffic must flow in one direction only — the direction shown by the arrow.
Where will I see a One Way sign?
At entrances to one-way streets, lanes in parking garages, tunnels with separated bores, and certain urban road systems.
What should I do when I see a One Way sign?
Enter from the correct end only. Verify direction from the arrow before entering. If you realise you are going wrong way, stop immediately and carefully reverse out.

Know a Driver Who Ignores This Sign?

Share this page. Awareness is the first step to safer roads.

Other Mandatory Signs