Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Transport Commissioner Vishesh Paul Mahajan Friday warned traffic violators, stating that those who fail to follow the rules will face severe consequences, including the cancellation of licenses and seizure of vehicles.
Visiting the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Srinagar today, Mahajan said, “Road safety is a top priority. This visit aligns with ongoing efforts to create awareness about safe driving, especially as we observe a week dedicated to road safety.”
The Commissioner during a media briefing as per news agency KINS stressed the importance of adhering to traffic rules to reduce accidents. “Drivers must wear seatbelts, and motorcyclists should wear helmets. Those who neglect these safety measures will face strict penalties, including license cancellation and vehicle seizure.”
He also highlighted the transport subsidy scheme, aimed at phasing out vehicles older than 15 years.
The Commissioner explained, “This initiative is part of a broader strategy to remove outdated and unsafe public transport vehicles, such as buses and minivans. Vehicle owners who scrap their old vehicles can avail a subsidy to purchase safer and newer ones.”
Providing an update on the scheme’s progress, he informed, “We have already received 35 applications in Srinagar and in Jammu it is around 100, and we urge more vehicle owners to participate. This subsidy will help ease the transition to safer vehicles.”
The initiative, part of the government’s broader plan to reduce vehicular pollution and enhance road safety, targets buses, minibuses, and other commercial vehicles that have exceeded their operational lifespan.
“Under the scheme, vehicle owners are required to scrap their old vehicles of above 15 years in the presence of Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) officials, after which a certificate of scrapping will be issued. The government will provide financial assistance of up to Rs 5 lakh or 16 percent of the vehicle’s cost —whichever is lower—directly into the loan account of applicants purchasing new vehicles,” Mahajan said.
Regarding road testing, the Commissioner outlined plans for modernization. “We are working on an online road test system to streamline the process. IDTR facilities are being developed in Jammu, and we are working to bring similar facilities to Srinagar,” he assured.
“Ensuring safer roads requires cooperation from everyone. We have to act against those who endanger lives, and the public must also do their part,” he said. (With inputs from KINS)
