In violation of the Motor Vehicles Act, and to prevent losses to the state exchequer, the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) Anantnag launched a crackdown on private vehicles used for commercial purposes (ferrying passengers) at Kokernag.
The crackdown was laid on the complaint from SDM office Kokernag as well as local inhabitants besides, the local transporters who had also raised their voice against this practice as it had affected their livelihood also.
During the day-long checking, as many as 26 Private Eco Vans were seized operating mainly on Soaf Shali-Nagam Route, Hangalgund- Watnard Route and Souin-Nagam Route besides other adjacent areas.
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The enforcement team headed by Assistant Regional Transport Officer Anantnag, Dr Mohammad Zubair Lattoo also checked other vehicles for different offences viz. Route Permit violations, Overloading, Over speeding, driving without Seat Belt, riding without helmet and without SLD. As many as 40 vehicles were challaned and blacklisted on spot. Fine to the tune of Rs 80,000 is expected to be realized from the Challans.
Meanwhile, awareness programmes on the “MUMKIN” scheme were held in those areas where Private Vehicles were being used for carrying passengers. They were also informed about the benefits of the scheme and encouraged to apply for LA so that they may earn their livelihood and also cater to the demands of local areas.