MVI checks thin traffic in Gangtok

GANGTOK, 31 March: The experience of free-flowing traffic in a jam-infested Gangtok must have confused commuters today as would have the shortage of taxis on the roads.
This happens every year at around this time. The reason - Motor Vehicles Inspection in coordination with the Traffic Police.
The Motor Vehicles Division of the Transport Department, in association with the Sikkim Traffic Police, began checking documents of all vehicles yesterday. The deserted roads imply that a majority of vehicles are plying in the capital with “failed” documents. Among them, taxis bagging the No. 1 position.

During these checks, the driver or the owner of the vehicle has to produce a valid driving license, up-to-date Bluebook, a valid fitness certificate and insurance papers. Failed documents attract on-the-spot fines.
The rush to update documents is also strong at this time of the year. One such spot is the laboratory of SMTEL’s Auto Emission Testing Centre, situated at Deorali, which is authorized to issue fitness certificates.
“Normally, 15 to 20 vehicles come to our lab daily for the fitness test. During MVI checks, like today, the numbers cross 80 per day,” said an employee at the Centre.
 “Vehicles are caught everyday of the year with failed documentation, but, we rarely experience such rush. I think, MVI check is the only one which reminds vehicle owners and drivers of their responsibilities,” he added.