Fatal Accident Exposes Lax Enforcement of Heavy Vehicle Ban in Amritsar
The death of Gursimran Singh, a 30-year-old scooter rider, after being crushed by a speeding sand-laden tipper truck on Sultanwind Road has reignited concerns over the unchecked daytime movement of heavy commercial vehicles in Amritsar. Despite a district administration ban on heavy vehicles during peak hours to reduce congestion and accidents, residents say violators ply freely with little fear of consequences.
Details of the Incident and Family's Grief
The accident occurred on Friday, July 4, 2026, when Gursimran Singh, a resident of Drumma Wala Bazaar, was run over by the tipper. His grieving family alleged that stricter enforcement could have prevented the tragedy. They questioned why heavy vehicles continue to enter densely populated areas during prohibited hours despite repeated fatal incidents.
Pattern of Fatal Accidents and Lack of Action
Since January 2025, nearly half a dozen fatal accidents involving heavy vehicles have been reported in Amritsar. However, residents claim neither the district administration nor the police have taken adequate steps to ensure compliance. Many blame the influential transport lobby for weak enforcement, regardless of which party is in power.
Bhagwant Singh, a resident of Sultanwind Road, noted that overloaded vehicles carrying sand, construction material, and other goods are a common sight on Sultanwind Road and the adjoining 100 Feet Road throughout the day. He added that the situation is similar on Tarn Taran Road, Chheharta Road, and other major stretches.
Residents' Concerns Over Traffic Safety
Ajit Singh, another resident, said heavy vehicles on narrow urban roads cause frequent congestion and pose a constant threat to two-wheeler riders, cyclists, and pedestrians. He alleged that many such vehicles are driven at high speed despite heavy traffic.
Ravinder Sharma, a retired government employee, criticized CCTV-based traffic monitoring, saying it has failed to improve the city's traffic scenario. He claimed that rules are flouted with impunity and that often only two-wheeler riders or vehicles from other states are penalized to meet enforcement targets.
Traffic Expert Insights on Restrictions
Traffic experts explained that restrictions on heavy vehicles were introduced to segregate oversized and slow-moving vehicles from peak-hour traffic and minimize accident risks. However, weak enforcement has undermined these orders.
Police Response and Future Plans
Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Amandeep Kaur said action is taken against vehicles found violating traffic rules whenever detected. She stated that the investigation into Friday's fatal accident is in progress and legal action will be initiated against the driver if negligence is established. She added that the police would ensure stricter enforcement of restrictions on heavy vehicle entry into the city.
