Bihar to Launch Major Crackdown on Illegal Parking Along National Highways Following Supreme Court Order
Patna: Bihar is preparing to launch a statewide enforcement drive against the illegal parking of vehicles on National Highways (NHs) following directions issued by the Supreme Court of India. The state government has instructed District Magistrates (DMs), Superintendents of Police (SPs), and other concerned authorities across all districts to conduct a special campaign to remove illegally parked vehicles from national highways.
The primary objective of the initiative is to improve road safety, ensure smooth traffic flow, and reduce accidents caused by vehicles parked illegally along highways.
According to government officials, strict action will be taken against trucks, buses, tractors, trailers, dumpers, and other commercial vehicles found parked in violation of traffic regulations. Authorities may impound offending vehicles, impose fines, and initiate legal proceedings against vehicle owners wherever necessary.
Supreme Court Directions to Be Implemented
Taking serious note of the increasing number of road accidents linked to unauthorized parking on national highways, the Supreme Court has directed states to adopt effective measures to address the issue.
In compliance with these directions, the Bihar government has instructed all district administrations to carry out a coordinated enforcement campaign aimed at improving highway safety.
Officials said that maintaining safe and obstruction-free highways has been identified as a top priority.
Special Enforcement Drive Across All Districts
Under the government's directive, joint teams comprising officials from the district administration, police, transport department, and the National Highways Authority will conduct regular inspections along highways.
These teams will identify vehicles parked illegally and take immediate action in accordance with the law.
Illegal Parking a Major Cause of Road Accidents
Road safety experts have long warned that heavy vehicles parked on highways without proper warning signs are a major cause of fatal road accidents.
During nighttime and poor visibility conditions, fast-moving vehicles often collide with stationary trucks or other commercial vehicles parked on the roadside, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities.
Authorities believe that eliminating illegal roadside parking will significantly reduce such accidents.
Commercial Vehicles Under Special Watch
The campaign will focus particularly on trucks and commercial vehicles that remain parked for extended periods near roadside restaurants, fuel stations, markets, and other locations instead of using designated parking areas.
Drivers and owners found violating the regulations may face penalties under applicable traffic laws.
Government to Promote Designated Parking Facilities
The state government is not limiting its efforts to enforcement alone. It is also working toward developing proper parking infrastructure for heavy vehicles.
District administrations have been instructed to identify suitable locations along national highways where designated parking facilities for trucks and other commercial vehicles can be developed.
Officials believe that providing safe parking alternatives will reduce roadside congestion and improve traffic management.
Transport Department to Conduct Additional Checks
Officials from the Transport Department will also participate in the campaign by inspecting vehicle fitness certificates, permits, registration documents, and other legal requirements.
If additional violations are detected during inspections, action will also be taken under the Motor Vehicles Act.
Joint Action by Police and Civil Administration
The enforcement drive will be carried out jointly by the police and district administration.
Where necessary, cranes will be used to remove illegally parked vehicles from highways. Officials have clarified that the campaign will not be a one-time exercise but will continue on a regular basis to ensure long-term compliance.
Expected Improvement in Road Safety
Road safety experts believe that eliminating illegal parking from national highways could substantially reduce the number of traffic accidents.
The initiative is also expected to improve the movement of ambulances, fire engines, and other emergency response vehicles by keeping highways free of unnecessary obstructions.
Appeal to Vehicle Owners and Drivers
Authorities have appealed to truck operators, bus owners, and other motorists to use only designated parking areas and avoid leaving vehicles on highways.
Drivers have also been advised that if stopping becomes unavoidable due to an emergency, they should park their vehicles safely away from the traffic lane and display appropriate warning signs.
Public Awareness Campaign
Alongside enforcement, the government plans to conduct awareness campaigns to educate drivers about the dangers of illegal parking on highways.
Officials will emphasize that unauthorized roadside parking not only endangers the driver but also poses a serious risk to other road users.
Use of Modern Technology
Authorities are also considering the use of CCTV cameras, drones, and other modern technologies to monitor highway traffic and detect illegal parking violations.
Patrolling on major highways is expected to be intensified to ensure prompt action against offenders.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Road Safety
The Bihar government has made it clear that road safety will remain a top priority and that there will be no compromise in enforcing traffic regulations.
By implementing the Supreme Court's directions, the state aims to create safer, more organized, and obstruction-free national highways while reducing road accidents and protecting the lives of commuters.
If implemented effectively, the campaign is expected to significantly improve traffic discipline, strengthen highway safety, and set an example of proactive road safety enforcement across the state.
