Punjab Government Takes Action Against Abandoned Vehicles in Cities
The Punjab government has issued a strict order to clear all scrapped, abandoned, unclaimed, and confiscated vehicles from police station premises and other government lands within city limits. Authorities must complete this task within 30 days. The vehicles will move to designated yards located outside urban areas.
Minister Sanjeev Arora Issues Directive for Immediate Survey
Local Government Minister Sanjeev Arora announced this directive on Sunday. He stated that joint teams from the police department, municipal corporations, traffic police, and district administration will conduct an immediate survey. These teams will prepare a detailed inventory and ensure time-bound execution of the order.
"The presence of large numbers of scrapped and confiscated vehicles within city limits creates multiple civic and administrative challenges," Arora explained.
Health and Safety Risks from Old Vehicles
Minister Arora highlighted several serious issues caused by these vehicles. Old vehicles pose significant fire hazards due to fuel residues, electrical faults, and flammable materials. This danger increases in densely populated urban areas.
Abandoned vehicles often accumulate stagnant water. This water becomes breeding grounds for mosquitoes and rodents. Consequently, the risk of diseases like dengue and malaria rises in these communities.
"Police station premises are meant for operational requirements, emergency vehicles, and public service delivery—not long-term vehicle dumping," Arora emphasized.
Traffic and Environmental Concerns
Vehicles left on roadsides and public land obstruct traffic flow. They also negatively impact the city's cleanliness and overall appearance. Deteriorating vehicles leak oil, chemicals, and heavy metals. These leaks cause soil and groundwater contamination, creating environmental hazards.
Legal Framework Supporting the Action
The minister clarified that this action aligns fully with existing legal provisions. The government bases its order on several key laws:
- Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 – Allows removal of abandoned and unclaimed vehicles.
- Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989 – Covers de-registration and disposal of end-of-life vehicles.
- Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 – Ensures safe handling and disposal of non-biodegradable waste, including vehicles.
- Punjab Municipal Corporation Act – Grants authority to remove encroachments and public hazards.
Proper Disposal and Owner Notification Procedures
All relocated vehicles will go only to authorized vehicle scrap yards and recycling facilities. These facilities must strictly follow pollution control and environmental norms.
The government will implement a systematic process for vehicle removal. Authorities will tag and photograph all identified vehicles. They will affix notices to these vehicles. Where ownership is traceable, owners will receive information and an opportunity to claim their vehicles according to law.
For confiscated vehicles, officials will complete all mandatory legal documentation before shifting them. This step ensures that judicial procedures remain unaffected throughout the process.
This comprehensive initiative aims to address pressing urban management issues while adhering to environmental and legal standards. The thirty-day deadline underscores the government's commitment to swift action.
