DIMAPUR — In an effort to ensure passenger’s safety and assist police in streamlining the operations of three-wheelers, the Dimapur Police on Saturday launched identity display card system for auto-rickshaws at the Commissioner of Police office premises.
It came nearly two months after the police asked auto-rickshaw owners and drivers operating within Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland districts to report to the office of the DCP (Traffic) Dimapur, along with necessary documents, for issuance of identification display cards, which would be made mandatory.
Launching the display card system, Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, Kevithuto Sophie said that all auto-rickshaws owners/drivers should prominently display the cards on the windshield and rear of their vehicles for the convenience of passengers by February 29, 2023, failing which permit wouldn’t be given for operation in Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland districts.
A photo identity card containing crucial details about the auto-rickshaw and contact information of Traffic Controls/Police Control Room would be issued, he said, adding that it was taken up after a thorough verification of documents and permits of all auto-rickshaws, drivers, and owners.
He went on to say that photo identity cards have been issued to numerous auto-rickshaws in Dimapur and Chümoukedima following the approval of the initiative by the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) Dimapur.
It was informed that the display card would be valid for only two years, after which renewal is required. All records will be stored digitally and regularly updated at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Dimapur.
On the significance of the new system, the police commissioner said that it would help the traffic personnel manage and regulate auto-rickshaws more effectively, enhance passenger safety, particularly women and the elderly, detect crimes including stolen three-wheelers, and prevent unauthorised hiring by private auto-rickshaws.
The new system will also monitor compliance with proper documents, permits, licenses and uniforms, he said, pointing out that many auto-rickshaws ply without renewing permit licenses for more than a decade, while some auto-rickshaw owned by Assam people ply in Nagaland after registering in the state, thus affecting the business of the local vehicle owners and drivers.
The police commissioner also stressed the need to streamline the operations of auto-rickshaws amid worsening traffic congestion, significant increase in the number of three-wheelers and unfortunate incidents involving them.
It was informed that road accidents reported in Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland districts (combined) since January this year have witnessed a significant 55% drop, compared to the same period in 2022.
During the launching programme, Sophie also shared some of the initiatives undertaken by Dimapur Traffic Police in 2023, such as the installation of solar traffic blinkers, road safety awareness programmes in schools and colleges, installation of traffic islands, and traffic assistance booths at various locations.
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