Midnight crackdown: Sirmaur RTO takes on violators in Paonta Sahib

In a pre-dawn crackdown against violations of the Motor Vehicles Act, the Sirmaur Regional Transport Office (RTO), led by RTO Sona Chauhan, launched a surprise checking drive in the Bangran, Beharal and Mataralia areas of Paonta Sahib. The operation began at 3.30 am and targeted illegal and unsafe vehicular movement, particularly heavy vehicles misusing routes designated for light traffic.

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“Several multi-axle vehicles were found crossing a bridge in the Bangan area that is structurally cleared only for light motor vehicles. This not only violates traffic norms but also poses a serious risk to public safety,” said Chauhan. She added that the issue has been flagged as an administrative concern that must be addressed urgently.

A special team comprising officials Muneer Lal, Devendra, Harjeet, Mandeep, Shyamlal, Rom Bhardwaj, Dharmadev and Rajesh assisted in the crackdown. The RTO emphasised the need for interdepartmental coordination. “We will recommend a joint inspection and intervention by the PWD, police and local administration to fix accountability and prevent misuse of infrastructure,” she stated.

During the operation, the transport department issued around 70 challans, amounting to approximately Rs 12 lakh in penalties. Among the most serious violations were 14 e-rickshaws operating without valid fitness and insurance, which were impounded on the spot. In addition, two auto-rickshaws from other states without valid documents were also seized.

The enforcement team also impounded three overloaded trucks that lacked documentation, while 30 other overloaded vehicles were challaned for breaching safety and load norms.

“This drive sends a clear message: we will not tolerate negligence or illegal operations on the road. Our goal is to ensure safe, legal and responsible transportation in Sirmaur district,” Chauhan said. She confirmed that similar surprise inspections will continue across vulnerable areas in the district in the coming weeks.