Srinagar, Jan 24 — The Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department has launched a region-wide enforcement drive against vehicles fitted with unauthorised high-intensity white LED headlights and other non-standard lighting systems, citing serious road safety concerns, especially during night-time driving.
Officials said strict action will be taken against violators as such lights cause glare and significantly impair visibility for other road users.
“The use of high-intensity and non-standard lighting systems has emerged as a major road safety hazard, particularly during night-time and low-visibility conditions,” an official said. “These lights reduce reaction time for oncoming drivers and pedestrians and have been linked to road traffic accidents, including fatal incidents.”
The Transport Commissioner has directed all enforcement agencies — including Regional Transport Officers (RTOs), Assistant Regional Transport Officers (ARTOs), Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs) and field staff — to act against vehicles using lighting systems that violate prescribed norms.
According to the department, the enforcement drive will cover urban areas, highways, rural roads and accident-prone stretches across the region. Vehicles found fitted with unauthorised or modified headlights will be penalised under the Motor Vehicles Act and relevant rules, and such lights will be removed on the spot wherever legally permissible.
The department has also urged vehicle owners and drivers to comply with approved specifications. “Motorists are advised to refrain from using non-standard lighting systems and ensure their vehicles meet prescribed safety standards in the interest of public safety,” the official said.
Authorities said the initiative aims to reduce night-time accidents and improve overall road safety for all road users.