Jahangir Sofi
Srinagar, Nov 18 : In the wake of a recent surge in road accidents in Srinagar and elsewhere in Kashmir that claimed several lives, the Transport authorities in Kashmir on Monday announced a stricter enforcement of traffic laws, targeting underage drivers and those enabling their actions.
Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari while speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said that although their random checking drives were there, they will intensify their drives with special focus on underage drivers.
He said that underage driving will not be tolerated, and that vehicle owners found lending their vehicles to minors will face severe consequences, including legal action. “If any minor is caught driving, the vehicle will be seized, and its owner—be it a parent, guardian, neighbor, or friend—will be held accountable under the law,” he stated.
The RTO outlined a comprehensive strategy to intensify random checks and inspections across Kashmir, stating that the focus will be on adherence to traffic rules, verification of documents, and responsible vehicle usage.
RTO Kashmir urged parents to take responsibility in preventing underage driving; stressing that instilling civic sense and responsible driving habits should begin at home.
“We want sensible and responsible driving to stem from a collective civic responsibility, not solely from enforcement. Parents must ensure their children understand the dangers of reckless and illegal driving, both to themselves and society,” he said.
In a warning for traffic violators, he said that those found violating the traffic laws and indulging in reckless driving, licenses of those would be cancelled and registrations suspended.
“Violators should expect severe penalties, including cancellation of driving licenses, suspension of vehicle registrations, and vehicle seizures. There will be zero Tolerance policy for any traffic violation,” RTO Kashmir said.
Traffic authorities state that this renewed focus on stricter enforcement comes to strive to curb traffic-related fatalities and promote safer road usage across the region—(KNO)
