Shimla RTO Impounds Private Bus for Multiple Regulatory Violations
The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Shimla took decisive action on Monday by seizing a private bus operating on a local route within Shimla district. This enforcement measure followed a routine inspection that uncovered a series of serious violations, as confirmed by officials. The incident underscores the authorities' commitment to enhancing road safety and regulatory compliance across the region.
Details of the Violations Uncovered
During the inspection, officials identified multiple infractions that compromised passenger safety and legal standards. The bus was found to be operating with an expired fitness certificate, which is essential for ensuring the vehicle's roadworthiness. Additionally, it lacked a valid permit required for commercial operations, and the driver was discovered without a driving licence and the mandatory registration certificate. Further investigations revealed that special road tax dues had been pending since 2021, and the bus was being operated outside its designated permitted route, exacerbating the regulatory breaches.
Official Statements and Legal Actions
Regional Transport Officer Vishva Mohan Dev Chauhan emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the vehicle posed a significant risk to passenger safety. He affirmed that negligent operations would not be tolerated, and legal proceedings would be initiated against the impounded vehicle. Chauhan highlighted that the seizure resulted from a thorough document check and reassured the public that such inspections of buses would continue in the coming days to ensure compliance and safety.
Broader Context of Road Safety Initiatives
This incident aligns with broader state-level efforts to address safety concerns in public transport. On January 10, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri chaired the 5th meeting of the State Transport and Road Safety Council, where he noted that a majority of private buses in the state were running in violation of several norms. These violations included expired permits, compromised safety measures, and the absence of fitness certificates. Agnihotri urged private operators to promptly fulfil all pending formalities to avoid similar enforcement actions and enhance overall road safety standards.
The Shimla RTO's proactive measures serve as a reminder of the ongoing vigilance required to maintain safe and regulated transport systems, with authorities committed to regular checks and strict adherence to legal frameworks.
