Transport Commissioner Vishesh Paul Mahajan today discussed transport and traffic management issues in Doda district here at meeting with local administration. The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh; Senior Superintendent of Police Traffic National Highway Rohit Basgotra; ASP Headquarters Shakeel Ahmed Bhatt; DySP Traffic Sarabjeet Singh; ARTOs of Doda Kishtwar and Ramban, General Manager NHIDCL, XEN PWD and other officials from Doda Bhaderwah and Thathri. Transport sector stakeholders also participated.
The meeting focused on measures to ease traffic congestion, illegal parking and overloading. Transport Union representatives shared the challenges faced by commuters, while PWD and NHIDCL engineers provided updates on road projects.
The Commissioner stressed the need for timely completion of road repairs and widening works. The ARTO Doda highlighted enforcement measures in place to contain traffic violations. The Commissioner directed the ARTO to ensure electric autos and e-rickshaws operate within prescribed routes.
"E-rickshaws shall not be allowed on long routes and strict action should be taken against any violations" he directed. The fare structure of e-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws was also discussed to keep check on overcharging.
The meeting was informed that a budget of ₹2 crore has been allocated for installing crash barriers and blacktopping of roads in sensitive areas. The Commissioner instructed authorities to prioritize these projects to strengthen road safety.
He further asked for installation of CCTV cameras at key locations to monitor traffic and enforce safety rules. To promote safe driving, the Commissioner urged MVD authorities to organise counseling sessions for drivers on regular intervals.
He emphasized action against drunk driving, use of mobile phone and breach of speed limits, especially in hilly areas like Assar to Pul Doda. The DySP Traffic and ARTO Doda were directed to strictly implement speed regulations and organise awareness campaigns.
The Commissioner also instructed transport officials to take strict action against violators. Transport associations were urged to work together with enforcement agencies to improve transport facilities and ensure all vehicles are up-to-date.
The DySP Traffic and ARTO Doda were asked to ensure that no vehicle operates without a valid permit. A committee will be constituted to regulate the movement and routes of e-rickshaws. The Commissioner directed the XEN PWD and GM NHIDCL to focus on road maintenance while the CEO was asked to promote road safety awareness in schools. He emphasized the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in making roads safer and traffic smoother in Doda.