PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
To strengthen the traffic system and enhance road safety in Dehradun city, the Transport Department will commence the verification of the owners and drivers of Vikrams operating in the area from January 15 at Rangers Ground. This verification process will last for 10 days, concluding on January 25, as stated by the regional transport officer (Administration), Sandeep Saini.
Saini emphasised that road safety and improving traffic systems are crucial priorities for the RTO. To ensure a safe and secure public transport service for women and senior citizens, the verification of the Vikrams and their owners/drivers within the Dehradun city will take place at Rangers Ground, starting January 15 and ending on January 25. He said that about 514 Vikrams operate within Dehradun city.
Regarding the Vikram verification, they had recently held meetings with Vikram vehicle unions, as well as owners and drivers in Dehradun. During these meetings, owners and drivers were advised to have their documents, including permits, licenses and others and ready for inspection. Instructions have also been given to ensure that their vehicles are operational (fitness check) and meet all necessary requirements, he said.
Saini added that additionally, drivers of vehicles from other States/districts have been instructed to conduct their police verification in their respective States or districts, so they can present the verification report to the committee designated for the said process. Saini confirmed that the verification process will commence on January 15, with the goal of covering 60 to 70 Vikrams each day during this period. He added that the verification committee will carry out a comprehensive verification process, which includes mandatory police verification of the vehicle owner and driver, as well as document verification. This will involve checking the fitness and suitability of the vehicle, valid driving license, registration certificate, valid permit, insurance certificate, pollution certificate and other necessary documents. Saini said that counselling will be provided for the owners and drivers of the Vikrams. Following the verification process, ID cards will be issued to drivers, who will be mandatory to wear around their necks while driving. Verified Vikrams will also receive stickers to be placed on their vehicles, indicating that they have been verified, along with a helpline number clearly marked inside and outside the vehicle. He further added that for safety and awareness earlier, the RTO ordered the removal of seats next to the driver regarding Vikram vehicles. Regarding this, the department will also verify these seats during the process, along with this, the drivers will also be informed to ensure they wear uniforms.
Notably, Saini earlier stated that this verification step will significantly reduce incidents and enhance road safety, particularly for women and senior citizens travelling in these vehicles, allowing them to feel safe and secure. Previously, he also informed that for the said verification process, a committee has been formed, comprising the sub-divisional officer, police circle officer, divisional inspector and transport tax officer.
