The Punjab administration has launched a series of campaigns to identify the possible causes behind frequent and fatal accidents during pilgrimages, political rallies and social gatherings in the state.
The campaign was launched amid reports of loss of human lives during pilgrimages due to the use of carrier vehicles for transporting people in various parts of the region.
Authorities have identified illegal modifications made to vehicles to maximise passenger capacity and negligence of drivers, especially during return journeys, as the main causes of these tragedies.
SSP Gagan Ajit Singh said DSPs Sukhdev Singh Brar, Sanjiv Kapoor and Manavjit Singh Sidhu, posted at the Ahmedgarh, Amargarh and Malerkotla subdivisions, respectively, have been directed to ensure that vehicles operating in their respective areas are used only for their prescribed purposes.
“The government will focus on maintaining proper road surveillance to ensure the safety and well-being of people travelling in these reportedly overcrowded vehicles,” said Gagan Ajit Singh. He said the use of goods vehicles for transporting passengers is illegal according to the Motor Vehicles Act, and those violating the rules will face strict punishment.
Gagan Ajit Singh, who was the first Chief of the Sadak Suraksha Force, further said, “Even when authorised vehicles are used, organisers should arrange orientation sessions for all members accompanying the group.”
Eight people were killed in a bus accident after it crashed into a tree near Himmatgarh village in Fatehgarh Sahib District on Wednesday, with authorities describing illegal modifications as a major cause of the loss of lives.
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