Baramulla, Feb 03 (KNO): Following a deadly accident in Uri, authorities have launched a massive crackdown on traffic violators across Kashmir, aimed at ensuring zero tolerance against overloading, with hundreds of vehicles fined and more than 53 Driving Licenses suspended.
An official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that so far in three days, authorities in Baramulla district suspended at least 53 driving licenses, 7 route permits and black listed 28 vehicles.
“On Saturday only, 250 vehicles were challaned with the expecting fine of approximately forty thousands,” it said.
Officials who spoke during drives at multiple locations said that the extensive drives against traffic violators is to reinforce safety measures on the roads and the commitment to zero tolerance for overloading.
ARTO Baramulla, Muazzam Ali told KNO that the recent tragedy has prompted them to intensify enforcement measures. “We want to send a clear message that there will be no compromise on safety standards,” he said.
“Following the directives from the DC Baramulla, we speed up efforts to address the concerns raised by the Uri accident and are working towards a safer transportation,” Ali added.
He encouraged the community to actively inform them about any concerns, especially regarding overloading saying the department will act immediately to adress the concern. "People's proactive approach contributes significantly to our collective efforts for a safer road experience,” he said.
Similarly, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Sopore, Shabir Ahmed Raina who was leading a drive against traffic violators on Sopore-Kupwara road said that the recent accident has propelled them into immediate action. There were numerous complaints against drivers being involved in overloading and driving without proper documents.
“We take complaints of overloading and driving without documentation seriously. Our commitment is to address these concerns promptly and enforce the necessary measures to maintain order on our roads”, ADC Raina said.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Traffic Rural, Ravinder Pal Singh earlier during his visit to Uri post accident said that they are steadfastly declaring zero tolerance for overloading and other traffic offenses.
“I have directed the officials to maintain stringent enforcement measures against traffic violators. In line with our commitment to road safety, we will not hesitate to cancel Driving Licenses and Registration Certificates for individuals involved in two or more violations,” he said.
He said that drivers play a pivotal role in ensuring road safety. “I urge all drivers to cooperate in our zero-tolerance stance against overloading, failure to comply may result in necessary actions,” the SSP said.
Earlier during a road safety meeting, the DC Baramulla directed the EOs of the municipalities to install CCTV cameras at entry and exit points of their jurisdictions to effectively monitor vehicles for instances of rash driving while R&B department was instructed to promptly address any issues of potholes on roads to mitigate the risk of accidents—(KNO)