Crackdown on traffic violators in Kashmir

In a significant move aimed at ensuring road safety and curbing traffic violations, the Motor Vehicles Department, led by Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari, on Saturday conducted an intensive enforcement drive across Kashmir.

The operation targeted major violations, including vehicles without fitness certificates, overloading, seat belt non-compliance, underage driving, and other offences under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

A total of 2,338 vehicles, including buses, school buses, goods carriers, and private vehicles, were checked during the drive. Of these, 586 vehicles were challaned for violations including driving without helmets and seat belts, overloading passengers, and lapses in fitness and insurance certificates. Additionally, 11 vehicles were seized, and Rs 7.98 lakh in fines was imposed.

The drive covered multiple districts, including Srinagar, Pulwama, Baramulla, Kulgam and Ganderbal. Srinagar recorded the highest collection of fines at Rs 2.22 lakh, followed by Kulgam and Ganderbal, which also witnessed significant enforcement actions.

Kashmir RTO has urged community leaders, religious figures, and teachers to actively participate in this collective effort by raising awareness about traffic rules and road safety. He emphasised the importance of collaboration to foster a culture of responsibility and compliance among citizens.