Rs 1.75 Cr collected from traffic violators, 15000 challans issued, says RTO Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari, has disclosed that enforcement drives across the valley have resulted in the issuance of 15,165 challans over the past few months, recovering penalties worth ₹37 lakh in Srinagar alone.
He said valley-wide that the cumulative revenue from these penalties has reached ₹1.75 crore this year, while the department's typical annual revenue from enforcement actions ranges between ₹4-5 crore.
The RTO acknowledged the relentless efforts of the transport department's ground teams and enforcement personnel. He lamented that despite strict measures, road accidents continue to occur due to a lack of societal awareness and responsibility.
Kashmir's Regional Transport Officer (RTO) emphasized the importance of collective societal responsibility in curbing recent accidents.
Speaking on the matter, the RTO acknowledged the relentless efforts of the transport department's ground teams and enforcement personnel. He lamented that despite strict measures, road accidents continue to occur due to a lack of societal awareness and responsibility.
"It is unfortunate that such tragedies still happen. Accidents like this should evoke serious condemnation from all—parents, relatives, friends, and neighbors. Until society as a whole takes this seriously, we will not achieve an ideal situation," he stated.
The RTO called upon community leaders, including political representatives, grassroots workers, and influencers, to educate and counsel the public on road safety. He stressed the importance of instilling a culture of responsibility and vigilance to prevent such incidents.
Highlighting recent enforcement actions, the officer said, "In the past few days, we have intensified our measures, seizing several vehicles for violations. However, enforcement has its limits. Ultimately, this is a collective responsibility that requires everyone to play their part."
In the wake of increasing road accidents, the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir has urged a stronger focus on enforcement measures and a shift in public attitudes toward responsible driving.
Speaking about the ongoing efforts of the transport department, the RTO mentioned that all regional offices (RTOs) across the valley are actively working, with bi-weekly enforcement drives being conducted. "I have requested my teams in other districts to intensify enforcement efforts further," he said.
He shared insights into the enforcement data, highlighting that over the past few months, the Srinagar team alone issued 15,165 challans, recovering penalties amounting to ₹37 lakh. Across the valley, the cumulative revenue from penalties has reached nearly ₹2 crore this year. Typically, the department generates annual revenue of ₹4-5 crore through enforcement actions.
However, the RTO expressed concern that while enforcement measures and revenue collection from penalties have consistently increased, the accident rate has not shown a proportional decline.
"This highlights a gap in implementation and awareness. While enforcement is essential, the real change lies in developing a culture of sensible driving and responsible behavior on the roads," he stated.
Addressing stakeholders, including community leaders and media, the RTO emphasized their critical role in spreading awareness and educating people. "With your reach, you can help us convey the importance of safe and sensible driving. Changing attitudes is the key to addressing this chronic issue," he urged.

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