Ganderbal, Jan 5: Traffic Police Rural on Monday swiftly acted after several tourists visiting health resort Sonamarg were found violating traffic rules and risking their lives by taking selfies and videos while riding in moving vehicles.
Eyewitnesses said that several tourists were seen indulging in dangerous practices, including stunt driving on snow-covered roads, leaning out of windows of moving vehicles, dancing on roads and taking selfies in the middle of traffic. Such actions, officials said, not only endangered the lives of those involved but also posed a grave risk to other commuters and locals navigating the narrow and icy stretches.
A team of traffic police rural led by DySP Traffic Ganderbal Gulzar Ahmad swiftly acted and counselled the tourists and educated tourists about safe driving practices. The traffic police officials counselled tourists who were taking selfies and videos while riding in moving vehicles. Besides counselling some vehicles were fined for violation of traffic rules. The DySP Traffic advised the visitors that Sonamarg is meant for enjoying its natural beauty in a safe and responsible manner, not for stunt driving or risky activities that could result in loss of life.
Earlier, the tourists were found to be engaging in risky behavior, such as taking selfies while on the move, which can distract the driver and lead to accidents. The traffic police officials explained the importance of road safety and the potential consequences of such actions. Tourists were advised to prioritise their safety and the safety of others on the road. The officer also directed drivers to strictly use anti-skid chains on their vehicles to cope with icy road conditions and avoid mishaps. He warned that failure to follow traffic advisories during winter conditions could lead to strict action under the law. Traffic police reiterated their appeal to tourists to cooperate with enforcement agencies, follow road safety norms and respect local conditions to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for everyone.