KATRA: A special enforcement drive was conducted today at Katra under the directions of Transport Commissioner Vishesh Mahajan and under the guidance of Regional Transport Officer Pankaj Bhagotra to curb violations of the Motor Vehicles Act (MV Act) and associated rules. The focus of the drive was on three-wheeler auto-rickshaws, which were found overcharging passengers and indulging in overloading.

The Auto Rickshaw drivers and owners were strictly instructed not to overcharge passengers or overload their vehicles. A meeting was also held with the Auto Rickshaw Union President and Vice President, along with vehicle owners and drivers, at Railway Station Katra, Katra Bus Stand and Banganga Auto Stand. During the drive, ARTO (Flying Squad) emphasized strict adherence to traffic norms and MV Act rules, including prohibition of overcharging and overloading, 

They were asked to follow mandatory wearing of uniforms along with name plates, keep vehicle documents updated, behave properly with passengers, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or contraband substances. As part of the enforcement, around 400 vehicles were checked, and 33 were e-challaned for various violations, including 15 for overcharging. 

Additionally, one vehicle was seized for lacking fitness and kept at Katra Police Station. The expected fine from e-challans amounts to Rs. 46,400. The enforcement team included MVI Jasbir Singh and MVTA Taranjot Singh, under the supervision of ARTO (Flying Squad) Bipen Singh Charak.

Furthermore, another enforcement  Flying Squad comprising NHW Pawan Sharma conducted road checking with SMVI Amanish Sharma on the Jammu-Katra National Highway, booking violators under various provisions of the MV Act and rules. More than 90 vehicles were checked, out of which 21 vehicles were e-challaned for different offenses. Additionally, one Tata 207 Load Carrier was seized for lacking fitness and kept at Police Post Nomian. The expected fine from these e-challans amounts to Rs 79,900.

This initiative in and around Katra and NH 44 plays a vital role in ensuring passenger safety, preventing overcharging, and maintaining transport discipline. Strict enforcement of MV Act regulations will help streamline public transport operations, benefiting both locals and pilgrims.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here