SRINAGAR, SEPT 17: India’s first-ever Drivers’ Dignity Day is being observed across the country, with the initiative beginning from Srinagar, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Kashmir Range Haseeb-ur-Rehman said on Thursday.
While speaking, DIG Rehman said it was a matter of pride that Srinagar had hosted the launch of an initiative aimed at recognising the contribution of drivers to society and the economy.
He said drivers play a vital role in keeping the economic and transport system moving, particularly truck drivers who ensure the movement of essential goods and other commodities across different parts of the country.
“Drivers are an important part of our society and promote our economy,” the DIG said, stressing that their contribution should be recognised and they should receive the respect they deserve.
At the same time, Rehman underlined that dignity and responsibility must go hand in hand, maintaining that drivers are equally required to follow traffic rules and maintain road discipline.
He said the Traffic Department would continue to take action against violations irrespective of the category of vehicle involved.
Referring to recent enforcement against overloaded Smart City buses, he said strict action had been taken in cases of violations, including challaning and seizure of vehicles.
While enforcement would continue against those violating traffic regulations, the DIG said disciplined drivers should be encouraged and facilitated.
He said the objective of Drivers’ Dignity Day was not only to recognise drivers’ contribution but also to promote responsible and orderly driving practices.
On the issue of uniforms, Rehman said drivers of government buses generally follow the prescribed dress code, while there remains a gap in the private transport sector.
He expressed hope that private-sector drivers would also increasingly adopt greater discipline, including adherence to uniform requirements, in the coming days.
The initiative, he said, seeks to strike a balance between respect for drivers and responsibility on the road, with the Traffic Department continuing both awareness efforts and enforcement against violations.
