Odisha STA in action mode against underage driving, several students fined

Several traffic violators across the State were slapped with hefty fines as the State Transport Authority (STA) began a week-long special crackdown on underage driving ahead of the zero fatality week.

According to sources, several minor students were fined Rs 25,000 during the special enforcement drive launched by the STA.

Taking to Twitter, STA wrote, “If caught, the parent or vehicle owner will be fined with Rs.25000 & a 3-year jail term while the registration of the vehicle will be cancelled. Minor will also not be eligible for applying for licence until he or she turns 25. #SayNoToUnderAgeDriving.”

“As per the government guidelines, we are observing Tuesday as zero tolerance day. The underage drivers without licence are in our focus. Stringent action will be taken against the violators,” said Bibhav Samantasinghara, Rourkela RTO.

“We are focusing more on the minors who are driving without license. The special crackdown is being carried out across Odisha. Cases against several violators have been registered,” said Lalmohan Sethi, additional commissioner of enforcement of STA. 

“I would like to urge the parents not to give two wheelers to their children. We would be successful if we obey the rules. We don’t want to put anyone into trouble, our aim is to avoid untimely accidental deaths,” Sethi added.

Earlier yesterday, the STA had warned that the violators will be fined up to Rs 25,000 for underage driving. Besides, the vehicle will be seized and its registration will be cancelled. 

Most importantly, a case will be lodged against the registered owner of the vehicle. As per the law, the violator can be awarded 3 years jail term.