IG Central Range Orders Special Enforcement Drive on Buses During Road Safety Month

Cuttact: In a bid to curb road accidents and ensure safer travel during the ongoing National Road Safety Month, Inspector General of Police (Central Range), Dr. Satyajit Naik, has directed Superintendents of Police of all districts under the range to launch an intensified enforcement drive targeting public and private transport vehicles.

The special drive will focus on high-occupancy passenger vehicles, including Ama Bus services, private stage carriers and picnic buses, particularly those operating towards Puri and other major destinations. The move comes amid a surge in passenger movement during the pilgrimage and picnic season.

According to the IG, enforcement teams have been instructed to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards traffic violations. The drive will include strict verification of vehicle permits, fitness certificates and insurance documents to ensure that only roadworthy vehicles are allowed to operate. Drivers will be checked for valid driving licences, fatigue, intoxication and any health-related risks that could endanger passengers.

Police will also strictly enforce speed limits and registered passenger capacities with the help of interceptors and speed-detection devices. Special emphasis will be laid on compliance with safety protocols such as the use of seatbelts and the availability of mandatory safety equipment, including fire extinguishers and first-aid kits, in commercial buses.

In view of frequent tourist and picnic travel, buses carrying groups to tourist spots will be closely monitored to prevent unsafe parking on highways and ensure disciplined movement.

Dr. Naik said the enforcement drive will be supported by the Odisha Integrated Road Safety Dashboard, enabling real-time monitoring of traffic and focused action in identified accident-prone “black spots” and high-risk corridors.

“Our objective is to move beyond mere data collection to active, life-saving interventions. By working in coordination with the RTOs and adopting evidence-based planning, we aim to strengthen road safety in line with the ‘Vikshit Odisha 2036’ vision,” the IG said, appealing to transport operators and commuters to cooperate with the authorities.

The Superintendents of Police have been asked to submit periodic compliance reports to the Central Range office to assess the effectiveness of the drive.