Cuttack: The State Transport Authority (STA) of Odisha, under the leadership of Transport Commissioner Shri Amitabh Thakur, has initiated a robust and systematic enforcement campaign to ensure strict adherence to the Motor Vehicles Act.
A primary focus of this statewide effort is the prevention of illegal passenger transportation in goods vehicles, a practice that has historically led to severe road accidents and loss of life.
While RTOs across the State are carrying out enforcement drives, on May 1, 2026, the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Subarnapur conducted a high-impact special drive targeting these specific violations. Operating at various strategic locations throughout the district, the enforcement teams scrutinized commercial vehicles to ensure they were not being used as unauthorized passenger carriers. This local action is part of a larger, week-long intensive drive scheduled to continue until May 8, 2026, across all districts of Odisha.
The enforcement protocols being implemented are rigorous. Vehicles found carrying passengers in cargo compartments face immediate seizure. Furthermore, the STA has mandated the cancellation of vehicle registration certificates (RC) for repeat offenders and the suspension of driving licenses for those compromising public safety. Beyond passenger transport violations, the RTO Subarnapur and other state units are also checking for valid fitness certificates, up-to-date insurance, and compliance with the “No Fuel Without PUC” (Pollution Under Control) rule that became effective earlier this year.
This proactive stance by the Transport Department has garnered significant praise from the citizens of Subarnapur and the wider public. By shifting toward a “zero tolerance” policy for MV Act violations, the administration aims to instill a stronger culture of road safety. The drive is not merely about penalties but serves as a deterrent to prevent the “overloading” of people in unsafe goods carriages, which is often seen during local festivals or labor transit.
The consistent presence of enforcement officers on the ground reflects Shri Amitabh Thakur’s vision of making Odisha’s roads safer through technological integration and visible field enforcement.