KATRA: A special enforcement drive was conducted today at Katra under the directions of Transport Commissioner Vishesh Mahajan and under the guidance of Regional Transport Officer Pankaj Bhagotra to curb violations of the Motor Vehicles Act (MV Act) and associated rules.

The focus of the drive was on three-wheeler auto-rickshaws, which were found overcharging passengers and indulging in overloading.

The Auto Rickshaw drivers and owners were strictly instructed not to overcharge passengers or overload their vehicles. A meeting was also held with the Auto Rickshaw Union President and Vice President, along with vehicle owners and drivers, at Railway Station Katra, Katra Bus Stand and Banganga Auto Stand.

During the drive, ARTO (Flying Squad) emphasized strict adherence to traffic norms and MV Act rules, including prohibition of overcharging and overloading,

They were asked to follow mandatory wearing of uniforms along with name plates, keep vehicle documents updated, behave properly with passengers, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or contraband substances.

As part of the enforcement, around 400 vehicles were checked, and 33 were e-challaned for various violations, including 15 for overcharging.

Additionally, one vehicle was seized for lacking fitness and kept at Katra Police Station. The expected fine from e-challans amounts to Rs. 46,400.

The enforcement team included MVI Jasbir Singh and MVTA Taranjot Singh, under the supervision of ARTO (Flying Squad) Bipen Singh Charak.

Furthermore, another enforcement  Flying Squad comprising NHW Pawan Sharma conducted road checking with SMVI Amanish Sharma on the Jammu-Katra National Highway, booking violators under various provisions of the MV Act and rules. More than 90 vehicles were checked, out of which 21 vehicles were e-challaned for different offenses. Additionally, one Tata 207 Load Carrier was seized for lacking fitness and kept at Police Post Nomian. The expected fine from these e-challans amounts to Rs 79,900.

This initiative in and around Katra and NH 44 plays a vital role in ensuring passenger safety, preventing overcharging, and maintaining transport discipline. Strict enforcement of MV Act regulations will help streamline public transport operations, benefiting both locals and pilgrims.

91,788 devotees pay obeisance at revered Shrine

REASI: The three-day Mahashivratri Shivkhori Mela at Ransoo, Reasi, a sacred congregation celebrating the divine essence of Lord Shiva, concluded today amidst fervent devotion and spiritual enthusiasm.

Organized by the district administration Reasi headed by Deputy Commissioner Nidhi Malik, Tourism Department Jammu and Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board (SSKSB), the event witnessed an overwhelming turnout of devotees from across Jammu and Kashmir UT and adjoining states.

By 5 PM today, approximately 91,788 individuals marked attendance at the revered shrine to pay homage and seek blessings.

Throughout the mela, the District Administration Reasi and SSKSB collaborated to provide a range of facilities catering to the needs of the devotees.

From accommodations and medical aid to essential amenities like water and power, every possible effort was made by the administration to ensure the comfort and safety of the pilgrims on this sacred journey. The cultural program, including Jhanki, folk and religious dances, devotional songs, and Dangal, organized by the Tourism Department in collaboration with the District Administration Reasi, added vibrancy and spirit to the event.

On the final day, a Dangal, also known as ‘Chinj,’ was organized by the J&K Indian Style Wrestling Association, headed by Shiv Kumar Sharma, with support from the Tourism Department, District Administration Reasi, Shivkhori Shrine Board and Shivkhori Dangal Committee.

The atmosphere at Shivkhori resonated with reverberating chants of Lord Shiva as devotees immersed themselves in prayer and introspection. The diligent efforts of the authorities, coupled with strict adherence to safety measures, ensured a seamless and secure experience for all participants. The mela also featured captivating cultural performances, including the mesmerizing Shiv-Parvati Vivah and a soul-stirring rendition of Lord Shiva bhajans by renowned singer Chaman Lehri.

As per the directions of Deputy Commissioner, who also serves as Vice Chairman of Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board, maintaining cleanliness was a top priority for the District Administration Reasi, with dedicated efforts toward sanitation across all mela sites. She also emphasized the proper inspection of Langar food by the Food Safety Department during the mela. The installation of CCTV cameras and the deployment of additional security personnel further enhanced safety, ensuring a secure environment for all attendees.

All staff members of District Administration Reasi from Revenue, SSKSB, magistrates, police officials and other departments worked tirelessly day and night to ensure the smooth conduct of the event and the availability of all necessary facilities.