Strict Enforcement Drive in Budgam: 18 Licences Suspended, 5 Vehicles Seized

 

 

Public Applauds Transport Commissioner’s Initiative, Appeals for Continuation of Flying Squad

 

Rafiq Bhat

 

Budgam, May 12: Following the direct directives of the Transport Commissioner, Jammu & Kashmir, the UT Level Enforcement Squad led by Mubashir Jan, ARTO, conducted an intensive enforcement and technical inspection drive across Budgam district. The operation was carried out in coordination with the ARTO Budgam team and technically qualified Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs).

The drive focused on road safety, technical fitness of vehicles, passenger safety, and strict enforcement of the Motor Vehicles Act. Special checks were conducted on Tempo Travellers operating on hill roads, school buses, ATVs, tippers, Tata Sumo/Tavera vehicles, and public transport buses.

The public hailed the initiative, urging its continuation via flying squads to nail traffic violators. Complaints poured in on overloaded buses during peak hours, night tippers sans High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP), and undocumented vehicles dodging checks. “Keep the squad flying deal strictly with these risks,” residents demanded.

Residents submitted that the checking flying squad should continue its operations without interruption so that traffic rule violators are dealt with strictly. A specific appeal was also made to the Transport Commissioner that this campaign should continue to prevent further violations of traffic rules.

Along with their appreciation, citizens formally complained about persistent violations in the district:

Residents reported that buses operating across Budgam frequently carry passengers beyond permitted capacity, especially during peak hours, creating significant safety risks.

· Night-operating tippers without HSRP plates: Multiple complaints were received regarding tippers and heavy vehicles operating at night without High-Security Registration Plates, hampering identification and enforcement.

· Lack of documentation on night vehicles: It was alleged that many such vehicles deliberately operate at night to avoid daytime checks and ply without valid permits, insurance, or fitness certificates.

Citizens appealed that strict action should be taken on these violations as well.

Technical Inspections Conducted: 

MVIs carried out exhaustive technical inspections covering braking systems, tyre condition, emergency exits, speed governors, fitness certificates, insurance and permits, pollution compliance, lighting systems, overloading violations, and seating capacity norms.

School buses were separately audited for mandatory attendants, fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, emergency doors, reflective tapes, and driver authorization.

The drive yielded the following results:

· Driving Licences Recommended for Suspension: 18

· Vehicles Seized/Detained: 05

· Estimated Fine Amount: ₹1,65,000

· Vehicles Challaned: 42

Enforcement action was taken against overloading, technical defects, invalid documents, and unsafe passenger transport practices. Public awareness sessions were also conducted on road safety and responsible driving.

Following the drive, the squad submitted the following recommendations:

1. Strengthening of Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS)

2. Regular technical audits of public transport vehicles and roads

3. Mandatory quarterly school bus safety audits

4. Enhanced enforcement on hill roads

5. Continuous monitoring of overloaded vehicles

6. Sustained road safety awareness campaigns

7. Improved inter-agency coordination

8. Accident reduction strategies through strict compliance

9. Special night patrolling for tippers without HSRP plates

10. Surprise checks on overloaded public transport buses

Mubashir Jan, ARTO and squad head, said “Under the able guidance of the Worthy Transport Commissioner, J&K, this drive was conducted to enforce the Motor Vehicles Act strictly. The suspension of 18 licences and seizure of five vehicles reflect our zero-tolerance approach. We appreciate the public’s support and have noted their appeals for continuation of the campaign. Their grievances regarding overloaded buses and night tippers without HSRP plates have been forwarded to the Transport Commissioner for action.”

The Worthy Transport Commissioner has acknowledged the drive outcomes and public feedback. Instructions have been issued to replicate this enforcement model across other districts. Officials confirmed that the flying squad campaign will continue as an ongoing initiative. Night patrolling will be intensified, and surprise checks on overloaded public transport buses will be conducted regularly. The Transport Commissioner has assured the public that traffic rule violators will be dealt with strictly.