Crackdown on goods carriers ferrying pilgrims in Mandi

District police authorities in Mandi district have launched a special campaign against the illegal practice of using carrier vehicles to ferry pilgrims to prominent religious destinations such as Prashar Lake, Shikari Devi and Kamrunag. As many as 10 such vehicles were challaned by the police early this week.

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The move comes in the wake of frequent reports regarding traffic violations by the drivers of carrier vehicles, who were ferrying pilgrims to religious places in their vehicles by flouting traffic norms and putting the safety of passengers at stake.

Recently in a tragic accident involving a carrier vehicle, two fatalities and injuries to 19 passengers were reported.

According to traffic regulations, carrier vehicles are designated solely for transporting goods and not passengers. However, the growing influx of pilgrims to these remote hill shrines has led to a surge in violations with such vehicles being used as makeshift passenger transport, often under unsafe conditions.

Taking cognisance of the issue, Mandi Superintendent of Police Sakshi Verma has directed police officials of the concerned police stations to intensify vigilance and enforcement of traffic rules. A special week-long campaign has been launched targeting these violations, particularly in light of the upcoming fairs at Kamrunag and Prashar Lake, which are expected to draw large crowds.

“In just one day of the campaign, 10 vehicles were challaned for flouting traffic norms,” SP Verma said. “This is a serious concern as these vehicles are not equipped to carry passengers and doing so puts lives at great risk. We are committed to taking strict action against such erring drivers and owners,” she said.

The scenic locations of Prashar Lake, Shikari Devi and Kamrunag attract thousands of devotees and nature lovers each year. While these sites are revered for their spiritual significance and natural beauty, the steep and narrow hill roads leading to them require careful and regulated transport operations.

Local authorities are urging pilgrims and tourists to opt for legally authorised passenger vehicles for their safety. Officials also appealed to vehicle owners not to misuse their carrier vehicles for profit, emphasising that violations would result in penalties and possible seizure of vehicles.

The Mandi Police have assured continued enforcement of the campaign throughout the pilgrimage season and have also called for cooperation from the public to ensure safe travel to the region’s revered sites.