 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Feb 2: On receipt of a complaint, SP South, Jammu took immediate action in close coordination with the Regional Transport Office (RTO), Jammu, leading to the prompt seizure of an illegally operating commercial vehicle and averting a serious threat to public safety, thereby saving numerous lives.
The issue surfaced when a complainant approached SP South expressing grave concern regarding a commercial bus bearing Registration No. JK02X-8657, which, despite having been sold by him in Narwal area during the years 2015-2016, continued to remain registered in his name in official records. The complaint revealed that the initial purchaser failed to transfer ownership as mandated under the Motor Vehicles Act and further sold the vehicle to another person without completing the mandatory legal formalities.
It was further reported that the said vehicle was being illegally operated on the Jammu-Poonch route without a valid fitness certificate, despite having completed over 20 years of its operational life, thereby posing a grave and imminent danger to passengers and other road users. The present operator was also found to be non-compliant with lawful directions, openly jeopardizing public safety.
Taking serious note of the matter and recognizing the urgency involved, SP South immediately took up the issue with RTO Jammu S. Jasmeet Singh-JKAS for verification and necessary legal action. Acting on the communication, RTO Jammu promptly verified the records and immediately got seized the vehicle from field functionaries in Poonch, as it was found to be in violation of statutory provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.
The timely seizure of the vehicle ensured that a potentially fatal mishap was prevented. The swift inter-departmental coordination between Jammu Police and the Transport Department reflects a strong commitment towards proactive policing, road safety, and protection of innocent citizens.
SP South has emphasized that such cases are not isolated and has urged the general public to remain vigilant. Citizens who sell or purchase vehicles are advised to ensure that transfer of ownership is completed without delay through the concerned RTO. Merely handing over a vehicle without legal transfer can expose the original owner to serious legal and financial consequences. Likewise, operating or allowing the operation of a vehicle without a valid fitness certificate, permit, insurance, or beyond its prescribed age is a punishable offence and poses a direct threat to human life.
Immediate Steps Advised to the Public:
Ensure transfer of ownership is completed at the RTO immediately after sale or purchase of any vehicle.
Do not allow operation of any commercial vehicle without valid fitness, permit, insurance and other statutory documents.
Report overaged, unfit, or illegally operating vehicles to the nearest police station, Traffic Police, or Transport Department.
In case a sold vehicle continues to remain in one's name, immediately approach the Police or RTO with supporting documents.
SP South reiterated that public safety is a shared responsibility and assured that Jammu Police, in coordination with the Transport Department, will continue to take strict and prompt action against such violations. Citizens are encouraged to come forward and report such issues in time, as timely information and lawful action can prevent accidents, save lives, and protect innocent persons from undue legal hardship. |
