The Transport Department of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration has issued a comprehensive road safety advisory, warning of strict enforcement measures as road traffic accidents continue to claim lives and cause serious injuries across the country.
The advisory highlights the growing concern over fatalities linked to traffic violations and calls for immediate compliance with provisions under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, Central Motor Vehicles Rules, and related regulations. Authorities said repeated directions from the Supreme Court of India have stressed the need for stricter enforcement and sustained public awareness to address the rising number of road accidents.
Officials stated that non-adherence to traffic laws remains a major contributor to accidents, resulting in significant social and economic consequences for families and communities. The department reiterated that road safety requires coordinated responsibility from enforcement agencies as well as the public.
The advisory places particular emphasis on pedestrian safety, identifying pedestrians as the most vulnerable road users. Citizens have been instructed to cross roads only at designated zebra crossings and follow traffic signals at all times. Motorists have been directed to slow down near pedestrian crossings, yield right of way, and avoid parking or encroachment on footpaths, which can force pedestrians onto roads and increase accident risks. Violations of these provisions attract penalties under relevant sections of the law.
Helmet use among two-wheeler riders has also been highlighted as a critical safety requirement. The department stated that head injuries remain the leading cause of fatalities in two-wheeler accidents. Both riders and pillion passengers are required to wear properly fastened BIS-certified helmets. Non-compliance invites penalties, including fines and temporary suspension of driving licences, under the Motor Vehicles Act.
The advisory further identifies wrongful lane driving and unsafe manoeuvres as major causes of fatal collisions. Motorists have been instructed to adhere strictly to lane discipline, avoid wrong-side driving, and refrain from overtaking in unsafe conditions. Authorities warned that reckless behaviour such as sudden lane changes and cutting across traffic will attract penal action under provisions relating to dangerous driving.
Another area of concern flagged by the department is the use of unauthorised vehicle modifications, including high-intensity LED headlights, red or blue strobe lights, and multi-tone horns. These devices, officials said, can cause glare, confusion and temporary blindness, particularly during night driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents. The use of such equipment in private vehicles has been prohibited, with enforcement action to be taken under applicable legal provisions.
The administration stated that enforcement drives will continue and violators will face penalties as prescribed by law. It also reiterated that adherence to traffic rules is essential not only for legal compliance but also for personal and public safety.
Authorities have urged all road users to follow traffic norms, avoid aggressive driving behaviour, and contribute to a culture of responsible road use. The advisory underscores that sustained improvement in road safety depends on voluntary compliance alongside enforcement, as efforts continue to reduce accidents and protect lives.
