Bhubaneswar, July 29: On Monday, the Odisha State Transport Authority (STA) launched a two-day special drive aimed at curbing underage driving, a move prompted by the rise in road accidents and fatalities.

In 2023, road accidents in Odisha resulted in 557 deaths, with 224 of those victims being under the age of 18.

The STA has issued directives to all Regional Transport Officers (RTOs), emphasizing the need for stringent enforcement under Section 199 (A) of the Motor Vehicles Act due to the alarming increase in road accidents and fatalities, which have become a significant concern alongside drug-related issues.

The special drive against juvenile driving offenses began today, with RTOs instructed to carry out the enforcement rigorously. Officials are directed to fully implement Section 199 (A) of the Motor Vehicles Act and to detain vehicles driven by minors whenever possible. Additionally, an FIR must be filed against the guardian or vehicle owner at the local police station if a juvenile offense is detected.

The STA has also called on senior officials to enhance efforts in educating and sensitizing juveniles about the severe consequences of road accidents.

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