Citing continuing concerns over road traffic accidents and their impact, the Transport Department of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration has issued a comprehensive advisory urging strict adherence to traffic laws. The communication underlines that road accidents remain a leading cause of deaths and serious injuries, resulting in social and economic hardship to families and society. It also references directions from the Supreme Court of India emphasizing enforcement and public awareness to improve road safety.
The advisory reiterates that while enforcement agencies will take action against violations, road safety is described as a shared responsibility involving the government, enforcement authorities and citizens. The department has called for voluntary compliance alongside legal enforcement, stressing that safer roads depend on responsible behaviour from all categories of road users.
Pedestrian safety forms a key component of the advisory. Pedestrians are identified as one of the most vulnerable groups, with instructions that roads should be crossed only at designated zebra crossings while obeying traffic signals. Jaywalking and crossing at undesignated locations have been flagged as high-risk behaviour. Motorists have been directed to slow down near pedestrian crossings, stop when necessary and give right of way to pedestrians. Parking or encroachment on footpaths and pedestrian crossings has been prohibited, with reference to provisions under the Motor Vehicles Act and Central Motor Vehicles Rules. Violations are stated to attract penalties.
The department has also stressed mandatory helmet use for two-wheeler riders. Wearing BIS-certified protective helmets is compulsory for both riders and pillion riders, with proper fastening required for effectiveness. Where applicable, children riding as pillion riders must also wear helmets. Non-compliance is identified as a punishable offence under the Motor Vehicles Act, carrying financial penalties and potential disqualification of driving licences for a specified period. Head injuries are cited as a major cause of death in two-wheeler accidents, with helmets described as a critical safety measure.
Lane discipline and correct-side driving have been highlighted in the context of rising incidents linked to wrong-side driving and unsafe lane changes. Motorists have been instructed to follow lane markings, directional arrows and traffic signs, and to avoid overtaking from the wrong side or making sudden unsafe manoeuvres. Such practices are associated with serious collisions and are punishable under relevant sections of the law.
The advisory further addresses the use of unauthorized lighting and sound devices in vehicles. High-intensity white LED headlights, red or blue flashing or strobe lights, modified lighting systems and unauthorized multi-tone or pressure horns have been identified as hazards due to glare and confusion, particularly at night. Only manufacturer-approved headlights, fog lamps and horns are permitted, while emergency lights and sirens are restricted to authorized emergency vehicles. Violations are stated to attract action under provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act and associated rules.
The department has indicated that enforcement drives will continue and that drivers and riders found violating motor vehicle laws and rules will be penalized as per legal provisions. Alongside enforcement, the advisory emphasizes setting a positive example, especially for children and young drivers, and calls for cooperation in building a culture of responsible road use.
With references to legal provisions and behavioural expectations, the advisory positions compliance not only as a legal obligation but as a necessary step toward reducing accidents and ensuring safer mobility for all road users in the islands.
