The Traffic Department’s ongoing drive against underage driving in Srinagar has brought a visible change to the city’s roads as much awaited traffic discipline is returning gradually.
The initiative has not only instilled discipline but has also garnered widespread praise from parents and locals alike.
SSP Traffic City (Srinagar) Muazafar Shah, who led the drive at Bemina today, highlighted the campaign's impact. “Counselling is an integral part of our drive. Traffic management has improved significantly in the city and we are receiving appreciation calls from parents,” he said. Accompanying him was RTO Kashmir Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari, adding to the campaign’s momentum.
The results of the drive are evident. In the past 15 days alone, over 5,000 two-wheelers and four wheelers have been seized across Srinagar and other parts of the Valley for violations. Schools have also tightened their policies, ensuring that minor students are not allowed to bring two-wheelers to school premises.
Parents have expressed relief over the campaign's success. “I feel much safer knowing that minors, including my son, are being counselled and prohibited from driving without a license,” said Altaf Ahmad, a Bemina resident. Another parent, Shaista Akhtar, remarked, “This drive has brought accountability. It’s reassuring to see the authorities take action for the safety of our children and others on the road.” She said her son now prefers to travel in public buses' rather than taking his father's bike.
Srinagar’s roads, once plagued by reckless underage drivers, now reflect a sorts of sense of order. With the ongoing efforts of the Traffic Department and positive feedback from the community, the city seems poised for a lasting improvement in road safety and discipline.