Suhail Khan
Sopore,Nov 27 ; Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Traffic (Rural Kashmir) Ravinderpal Singh stated that for the past years, the traffic department has been engaged in strict drives aimed at raising awareness about traffic rules and addressing violations.
During his visit to Sopore, SSP as per Kashmir Despatch stated that these combined awareness efforts target individuals who are not adhering to traffic regulations, emphasizing the importance of following the rules for public safety.
He said a concerning increase in the frequency of accidents, attributing it to a lack of understanding of basic traffic rules among many individuals. For instance, he highlighted that many people are still unaware of fundamental safety measures, such as the correct use of seat belts. The primary objective of these initiatives is to heighten public awareness regarding traffic regulations.
The SSP also expressed alarm over the issue of overloading in remote areas, where vehicles often carry between 14 to 15 passengers on narrow, single-lane roads. He emphasized that accidents involving such overloaded vehicles could lead to multiple casualties, thus asserting that strict monitoring would be implemented to prevent fatalities and take severe action against offenders.
SSP Traffic indicated that measures against overspeeding would be regularly enforced. Observations have revealed that many drivers engage in reckless behavior and exceed speed limits, which will be strictly addressed, with violators facing penalties according to the law.
The SSP mentioned that old vehicles operating without proper documentation have also been identified and directed traffic officers to take appropriate action against these cases.
He acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the department to combat traffic violations but emphasized that achieving meaningful outcomes would require public support.
Furthermore, he underscored the importance of civic responsibility among citizens regarding vehicle parking, urging them not to occupy road space unnecessarily to avoid inconveniencing others on and off the road.
He also instructed Municipal Council Sopore officials to implement a blanket ban on street vendors, as their activities have engulfed nearly half of the road. He also called on shopkeepers to limit their operations to designated areas and refrain from using roadside spaces to alleviate public inconveniences.
In response to concerns about the lack of traffic police presence in Sopore, the SSP reassured that he has directed the department to ensure traffic officers are stationed in Sopore, especially during peak hours. Further, he mentioned that efforts are underway to increase the number of traffic officers in the town.
