SHILLONG, July 7: The Shillong Traffic Police (STP) penalised 26 violators and collected Rs 19,500 in fines during a weekend checking drive at the Mawpdang-Ummir Junction on the Shillong Bypass.
The drive, conducted under ‘Operation Safer Shillong’, targeted speeding teenage riders, helmet violations, and illegally modified vehicles. The operation was carried out in collaboration with the Dorbar Shnong of Mawpdang, the Special Operations Team (SOT), and personnel from Diengpasoh and Rynjah police stations.
Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Hari Prasanth said the drive aimed to prevent accidents and promote safer riding habits rather than just imposing penalties. He noted that speeding, riding without helmets, and illegal modifications remain major causes of serious road accidents, particularly involving young riders.
“Speed thrills for a moment, but regret can last a lifetime. Our focus is on saving lives and preventing road crashes before they happen. While enforcement is necessary, the larger goal is to encourage responsible behaviour,” the SP (Traffic) said.
Prasanth stressed that road safety is a shared responsibility and urged motorists to adhere to speed limits and ensure vehicles comply with legal requirements.
The STP has appealed to motorists, especially youth, to ride responsibly and comply with all traffic rules to ensure safer roads for everyone.
