TrafficViolations – Bengal Police Intensify Road Safety and Anti-Drug Operations
TrafficViolations – Traffic enforcement measures across West Bengal have intensified over the past 10 days following the formation of the new state government, with authorities penalising more than 45,000 vehicle owners and riders for various violations.
Officials stated that between May 8 and May 17, police launched large-scale drives targeting illegal parking, helmetless riding, and unsafe two-wheeler practices. According to the latest figures, 27,201 people faced action for unauthorised parking, while 16,305 two-wheeler riders were booked for travelling without helmets. In addition, 2,738 riders were fined for carrying more than one passenger on motorcycles and scooters.
Traffic Monitoring Expanded Across Key Areas
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had earlier directed law enforcement agencies to take strict action against traffic offenders soon after assuming office. Police departments across multiple districts were subsequently instructed to strengthen road monitoring and improve compliance with safety regulations.
Authorities said the highest number of illegal parking cases were reported from areas under the South traffic guard jurisdiction. Traffic officials believe improper parking has been contributing significantly to congestion and disruptions in busy commercial stretches.
Police teams have also increased roadside checks to encourage helmet usage among riders and passengers. Officials maintained that the campaign is aimed at reducing accidents and improving public safety rather than merely imposing penalties.
Two Arrested in Separate Narcotics Operations
In another major development, West Bengal Police conducted anti-drug operations in Darjeeling and Malda districts, leading to the seizure of narcotic substances and the arrest of two individuals.
The accused were identified as Minajur Rahaman from Malda and Md Sagir from Naxalbari. Investigators alleged that the duo was carrying nearly 1.5 kilograms of brown sugar at the time of their arrest.
According to police sources, the suspects were detained near the PC Mittal Bus Terminus on Sevoke Road in Siliguri late on Sunday night. Preliminary investigations suggested that the narcotics consignment had allegedly been transported from Malda to Naxalbari before arrangements were made for delivery in Siliguri.
Investigation Into Drug Network Underway
Officials involved in the investigation stated that further inquiries are being carried out to identify possible links to a wider trafficking network operating in northern parts of the state.
Police teams in Malda also reportedly recovered an additional quantity of narcotic materials during related searches. Authorities have not yet disclosed the estimated market value of the seized substances, but officers confirmed that the investigation remains active.
Law enforcement agencies in the state have been increasing surveillance and conducting coordinated raids in recent months as part of broader efforts to curb illegal drug movement across district borders.
State to Rejoin Reservoir Regulation Committee
Meanwhile, the state government has decided to send its representative once again to the Damodar Valley Reservoir Regulation Committee after a gap of nearly two years.
Sources at Nabanna indicated that the new administration plans to appoint an officer of IAS rank to represent the state in the committee responsible for reservoir regulation and water management matters linked to the Damodar Valley Corporation.
The previous Trinamool Congress government led by Mamata Banerjee had withdrawn its representatives from the committee earlier amid disagreements over the release of water from the Maithon and Panchet reservoirs.
Officials familiar with recent discussions said Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari raised the matter during meetings with DVC representatives and emphasised the importance of maintaining direct state participation in reservoir-related decision-making processes.
The move is expected to improve coordination between the state government and the Damodar Valley Corporation, especially during periods of heavy rainfall and flood management concerns.