SAMAHNI (Kashmir English): Traffic police in Samahni will start imposing new fines from tomorrow under revised traffic rules to raise public awareness.
According to officials from the AJK Traffic Police in Samahni, including Incharge Muhammad Aziz and Muhammad Imran, the government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has increased fines for traffic violations.
The new penalties will be in effect following an official notification.
Speaking to the media, they said that under the updated rules, motorcyclists without helmets will be fined 2,000 rupees starting from tomorrow.
An awareness session was held today to inform the public about the revised fines and ensure a better understanding of the new regulations.
Officials urged all citizens to respect traffic laws and wear helmets while riding motorcycles. They said the purpose of the campaign is to improve road safety and reduce accidents.
Previously, the Mirpur traffic police had increased fines for various traffic violations, aiming to improve road safety and discipline.
District Traffic Inspector Mirpur Rohail Shaukat stated that the fines were increased following amendments in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1971.
The new fines varied depending on the type of vehicle and the severity of the offence. The traffic police reported that fines for speeding had been increased to Rs 500 for motorcycles, Rs 1000 for cars and jeeps, and Rs 2000 for public service vehicles.
The fine for not wearing helmets was increased to Rs 1000. For underage driving, the police had fixed fines of Rs 1500 for motorcycles, Rs 2000 for cars, and Rs 3000 for public service vehicles.
For overloading passengers, cars and jeeps were fined Rs 1000, and public service vehicles were also fined Rs 1000.
Azad Kashmir has been emphasizing the importance of helmets for a long time now.
It has been reiterated repeatedly how it is the simplest yet the most effective way to protect oneself from injuries while riding a motorcycle, bicycle, or any other two-wheeler. Helmets greatly reduce the risk of severe head injuries and fatalities in accidents.
