Have J&K Police Seized Vehicles Used for Off-Roading in Forest Areas?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- J&K Police have taken action against illegal off-roading.
- Protected areas require strict adherence to forest laws.
- Social media influencers must be aware of their impact.
- Community backlash is crucial for environmental protection.
- Education on traffic laws is essential for youth.
Srinagar, Oct 13 (NationPress) Authorities in J&K's Budgam reported on Monday that they have confiscated several vehicles involved in off-roading activities deep within the protected forest region of the district.
According to Budgam police, an FIR has been filed, and multiple vehicles were confiscated after a group of social media influencers was discovered driving within the protected Brainwar forest area, breaching forest protection regulations.
This group had gone viral on social media with videos showcasing their off-roading adventures in the forest.
Officials stated that the situation was brought to light when footage circulated online showing influencers carelessly operating vehicles through the ecologically sensitive Brainwar forest.
The videos faced strong backlash from local residents and environmentalists, leading to prompt action from the Forest Department and the district administration.
Forest officials emphasized that the area is designated as a protected zone under the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Act, and unauthorized access or vehicular traffic is strictly forbidden. Reports indicate that the authorities took the matter seriously, seizing vehicles shown in the video and filing an FIR against those implicated for damaging forest property and disrupting wildlife habitats.
Incidents of off-roading, stunt performances, reckless driving, and road rage have been significant traffic violations among youth in the past five years.
Factors such as parental negligence, disobedience, and rebellious behavior towards social norms and laws contribute to the majority of road accidents involving the younger population in J&K.
Regional transport officials have extensively communicated the laws being enforced against such violations.
Consequences for traffic offenses include the revocation of driving licenses and vehicle registrations, along with potential imprisonment for parents who permit their minor children to operate vehicles.
Petrol stations have been strictly instructed not to dispense fuel to motorcyclists or two-wheeler operators who are not equipped with helmets.