RTO Jammu Jasmeet Singh Stresses Safety, Discipline, and Strong Enforcement
The RTO Jammu Jasmeet Singh is working untiringly to streamline the traffic in Jammu province and will ensure the safety of the passengers
RC Sharma Chanakya
Jammu, Jul 29: In a candid and comprehensive interview, the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Jammu, Mr. Jasmeet Singh (JKAS), clarified that e-Rickshaws will not be permitted to operate on the National Highway, citing serious safety concerns for both drivers and passengers.
Speaking to a news channel, Mr. Singh stated in unequivocal terms that the National Highway is designed for high-speed vehicular traffic, and the lightweight, compact structure of e-Rickshaws makes them highly vulnerable to accidents in such high-risk zones. “These vehicles are intended for last-mile connectivity within city and suburban limits, not for heavy-speed corridors,” he said, underlining the Department’s strict policy on the issue.
He further explained that the National Highways, many of which are still under expansion and development, present an unsafe environment for slow-moving vehicles like e-Rickshaws. He emphasized that permits issued to e-Rickshaw operators explicitly prohibit operations on highways, and violators will face strict action.
Touching upon zone-based regulation, the RTO expressed concern over the growing trend of operators flouting designated boundaries. “Each e-Rickshaw is registered to function within a specific zone – for instance, those registered in Akhnoor must operate in Akhnoor and registered in RS Pura must operate in RS Pura but they are encroaching in other areas, creating operational chaos,” he noted. He assured that the department is streamlining these irregularities and will not tolerate further violations.
In a major step towards transparency and enforcement, Mr. Singh revealed that 2,484 vehicles have been blacklisted in the past one week alone for failing to clear pending challans and fines. In addition, 98 driving licences have been suspended. “There is no shortage of will or power in law enforcement. We are committed to reform and order,” he asserted.
Commenting on the recent Thar vehicle case, where an elderly man was allegedly targeted, the RTO said that the vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC) was promptly cancelled the moment the incident came to his attention. “We scanned our entire licensing records and discovered that the accused had never obtained a valid driving licence from our office,” he said.
Mr. Singh added that the Deputy Commissioner of Jammu issued strict directives, instructing the department not to grant a driving licence to the accused for the next five years. He praised the swift and firm stance taken by the district administration in the matter.
On the issue of traffic regulation for e-Rickshaws, the RTO said the SSP Traffic is also actively engaged, and discussions are ongoing to address legitimate grievances while ensuring law is upheld.
With clear vision, assertive action, and zero tolerance for lawlessness, RTO Jammu is steering the Transport Department towards reform, safety, and accountability – one bold step at a time.
