Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 17 May 2025
In a concerted effort to enhance road safety and enforce compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act and related rules, the Transport Department of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands conducted a comprehensive enforcement drive across the Union Territory during the second week of May 2025.
The drive, carried out in Sri Vijaya Puram, Ferrargunj, Mayabunder, Hutbay, Swaraj Dweep, and Diglipur, targeted unauthorized and unsafe operation of motor vehicles. The move comes amid a recent spike in road accidents, many of which involved vehicles lacking roadworthiness or essential documentation such as insurance, pollution certificates, and valid permits.
Enforcement teams, constituted under the direction of the Director of Transport and the guidance of the Secretary (Transport), conducted inspections of both commercial and private vehicles. The aim, officials said, was not only punitive but also educational—sensitizing drivers and riders to the importance of full legal compliance and road safety.
During the drive, a total of 58 vehicles and riders were penalized for various violations, including:
• Driving without a seatbelt
• Operating vehicles without valid insurance
• Lack of Pollution Under Control Certificates (PUCC)
• Autorickshaws operating without fare meters
• Expired vehicle fitness and permits
• Riding two-wheelers without helmets
• Overspeeding
In addition to on-the-spot challans, enforcement officials compiled data to identify repeat offenders, with a view to initiating stricter penal action as warranted by law.
The Transport Department has reiterated its appeal to all motorists to adhere strictly to road safety norms and legal requirements. It also reminded the public that services related to vehicle registration and driver licensing are available at all STS Unit Offices across the Islands.
Authorities confirmed that such enforcement drives will continue, and violators of the Motor Vehicles Act, Rules, and Road Regulations will face appropriate legal action.