Jammu, Dec 09: Traffic Rural Jammu has carried out a week-long special enforcement drive from December 1 to 7, targeting overloading in passenger vehicles and the use of pressure horns across the districts of Kathua, Samba, Rajouri and Poonch.
During the campaign, 505 Public Service Vehicles (PSVs)—including 140 buses, 151 minibuses and 88 taxis/cabs—were challaned for various violations. Officials noted a high incidence of overloading, particularly in rural and out-of-sight areas during morning and evening hours. Of the total challans issued, 201 vehicles, mostly buses, were booked for carrying 5–15 extra passengers beyond permitted capacity.
A parallel drive conducted from December 3 to 7 against the use of pressure horns resulted in 99 vehicles being challaned. These included 15 passenger vehicles and 84 goods carriers found violating anti-pollution norms.
To promote safe road practices, the department also organized 53 awareness programmes across the region. Students, drivers and the general public were sensitized about traffic rules and the importance of adopting safety measures to prevent road accidents.
SSP Traffic Rural Jammu, Farooq Qaiser, urged the public to strictly adhere to traffic regulations, especially in hilly terrain, to enhance passenger safety. He said that similar drives will continue in the future.
