Kishtwar Transport Department Seizes Electric Autos for Fare Meter Violations

KISHTWAR, July 14, 2026 — The Motor Vehicles Department conducted a surprise enforcement drive near the Government Industrial Training Institute today following directives from Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma.

Led by Motor Vehicle Inspector Imran Choudhary under the supervision of ARTO Tasleem Wani, the inspection team seized 15 electric auto-rickshaws. The vehicles were confiscated for operating without mandatory fare meters, which directly violates established Motor Vehicles Rules.

The enforcement operation was launched to ensure public transport operators follow prescribed norms and to protect passengers from arbitrary overcharging. Authorities noted that the absence of functional fare meters frequently causes fare disputes and creates significant inconvenience for daily commuters. The department reiterated that using operational fare meters is mandatory for public transport vehicles, warning that strict crackdowns will continue against anyone violating these regulations.

Transport officials advised vehicle owners and operators to comply with all legal requirements, including proper documentation and safety standards, to avoid heavy penalties and vehicle seizures. Commercial operators were urged to follow traffic rules in letter and spirit, with the department confirming that similar drives will be held regularly to ensure transparency and passenger safety. Commuters were also encouraged to cooperate with the authorities and report transport irregularities or overcharging immediately.