JAMMU: The Transport Department, Jammu & Kashmir, has launched a Union Territory-wide enforcement drive against motor vehicles fitted with unauthorized high-intensity white LED headlights and other non- standard lighting systems in view of growing concerns over road safety.

The Transport Commissioner has directed all enforcement agencies, including Regional Transport Officers (RTOS), Assistant Regional Transport Officers (ARTOS), Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIS) and field enforcement staff, to initiate strict action against vehicles using high-intensity lights that cause glare and impair visibility for other road users.

Officials stated that the blinding effect of such non-standard lighting systems has emerged as a serious road safety hazard, particularly during night-time driving and low-visibility conditions. These lights have been found to contribute to road traffic accidents, including fatal incidents, by significantly reducing visibility and reaction time for oncoming drivers and pedestrians.

The enforcement drive will be conducted across urban areas, highways, rural roads and accident-prone zones throughout the Union Territory. Vehicles found fitted with unauthorized or modified lighting systems will be penalized in accordance with the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act and relevant rules and such lights shall be removed on the spot wherever legally permissible.

The Transport Department has also appealed to vehicle owners and drivers to refrain from using non-standard lighting systems and to ensure that their vehicles strictly adhere to approved specifications in the interest of public safety and the safety of fellow road users. This initiative aims to enhance night-time road safety, reduce road accidents and ensure safer driving conditions for all citizens.

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