SRINAGAR, Nov 15: In the aftermath of a tragic road accident at Tengpora in Srinagar in which two minors lost their lives, authorities today launched a massive citywide crackdown, seizing scores of two-wheelers.Early in the morning, personnel from J&K Police and Traffic Police were stationed at key locations, where vehicles-particularly two-wheelers driven by minors-were promptly confiscated.
Speaking to reporters, SSP Traffic City Muzaffar Ahmad Shah said the crackdown, initiated earlier in the day, will continue in the coming days.
“This action will persist because if parents cannot fulfil their responsibility, we will ensure necessary enforcement. These are our children too,” he said.
The SSP highlighted a concerning trend of accidents involving minors driving without legal authorization and emphasized the crucial role of parents in preventing such behaviour.
“In recent days, minors have been involved in accidents, some resulting in fatalities or injuries. In light of this, we have decided to prioritize action against unauthorized driving by minors, whether on two-wheelers or four-wheelers,” he said.
As part of the operation, violators faced penalties or had their vehicles seized, officials said.
The SSP urged parents to take responsibility and prevent minors from accessing vehicles. “Parents become their children’s worst enemies if they allow them to drive illegally. They may not realize the risks their children face while driving,” he added.
He also acknowledged the challenge of curbing the issue keeping in view the growing number of vehicles in Srinagar city.
“It’s a significant issue, and curbing it will take time. We are doing our best, but the primary role must be played by parents and society,” he noted.
Meanwhile, RTO Kashmir Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari stressed the need for “severe deterrence” to curb such incidents“This is primarily a parental issue; the police cannot be blamed. In the past, we have cancelled licenses and registration certificates in similar cases. There must be stricter measures to prevent such tragedies,” he told Excelsior.
He also noted that parents can face legal consequences under existing laws in serious cases and urged the police to invoke such provisions when necessary.
“The transport department can impose compoundable penalties, but ultimately, preventing such incidents is a collective societal responsibility,” Bukhari added.
Meanwhile, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), expressing concern over the rising trend of road accidents involving underage drivers, urged authorities to take stringent action against violators.
“It is the responsibility of parents to ensure their children are not endangering their own lives or the lives of others by driving underage or without a license. We urge the community to remain vigilant and report any instances of minors driving to the relevant authorities,” the KCCI stated.
