SRINAGAR: Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bhukhari, on Saturday said that no government department can hire private vehicles, and anyone found involved in such practices will face legal consequences.
He emphasised that both the driver and the department will face legal consequences. “We have already issued a circular and warned treasury officers against such practices,” he added.
RTO Kashmir made these remarks on the sidelines of the culmination of the National Road Safety Month-2024 event at Dak Bungalow Baramulla.
During the National Road Safety Month-2024, the department focused on implementation rather than awareness. “We chose to visit the field instead of remaining in the offices. We visited far-flung areas across Kashmir to implement road safety measures and directed drivers and owners of commercial vehicles not to violate the rules,” he said.
The RTO Kashmir further mentioned that he instructed all ARTOs to deal firmly with traffic violators. “If any commercial vehicle is violating traffic rules, I have directed all ARTOs to cancel its permit, so as to set an example.”
Earlier, the Motor Vehicles Department in Baramulla marked the successful culmination of National Road Safety Month-2024 with a grand valedictory function held at Dak Banglow Baramulla.
Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa presided over the event as the Chief Guest, while Regional Transport Officer Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bhukhari, attended as the guest of honor.
DC urged all transporters, vehicle owners, drivers, conductors, travelers, and road users to strictly adhere to road safety and traffic rules, emphasising that compliance is paramount in reducing road accidents and saving lives.
While speaking on the occasion, Regional Transport Officer Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bhukhari, announced the commencement of Enforcement Month aiming to intensify efforts through targeted enforcement actions and awareness campaigns, fostering a culture of responsible driving and reducing accidents.
In his address, ARTO Baramulla emphasized the importance of following traffic rules and regulations and advocated adhering to speed limits besides asking them to desist from overloading passengers. (KNO)
