172 Vehicles Roam Free in Kashmir Despite Over 30 Challans Each – Traffic Dept To Impound Vehicles

Ziraat Times Team Report

SRINAGAR: In a startling disclosure, the Srinagar Traffic Police has revealed that 172 vehicles continue to ply the roads despite having over 30 pending e-challans each, triggering widespread public concern over traffic enforcement and accountability.

In a public notice dated April 29, 2025, a copy received by Ziraat Times, the department admitted that a significant number of vehicle owners have failed to clear their dues despite repeated violations. The notice warns that if dues are not cleared within a week’s time, stringent action under the Motor Vehicles Act will follow — including impounding of vehicles and blacklisting of offenders.

“This kind of blatant disregard for traffic law undermines the entire enforcement system,” said a senior traffic officer, adding that the list includes both local and outstation vehicles.

Critics have pointed to potential administrative laxity and favoritism, questioning how these vehicles managed to escape enforcement for so long while ordinary drivers face swift penalties for minor violations.

The Traffic Department has also requested the Joint Director Information, Srinagar, to give wide publicity to the list through print and electronic media, to alert the general public and pressurize the violators to comply.

Common citizens, meanwhile, have taken to social media to express their outrage, demanding uniform application of the law. “If someone with 30 challans can drive around freely, what message are we sending to law-abiding citizens?” one user asked.

With growing public pressure and the department finally stepping in, all eyes are now on whether this warning will lead to concrete action or merely remain another notice on paper.