The News Craving
Srinagar:
The Traffic Police Department in Kashmir has issued a stern warning against obstructing the movement of ambulances, announcing hefty penalties for violators. Underlining the gravity of the matter, the department stated that individuals found hindering ambulance passage could face either a fine of Rs 10,000 or imprisonment for a duration of up to six months.
In a circular issued by the department, hospitals and healthcare facilities operating in the Kashmir Valley were urged to coordinate with the Traffic Police Control Room to ensure smooth movement of patients during medical emergencies within the municipal limits of Srinagar.
Moreover, drivers of emergency vehicles and their attendants were instructed to maintain close communication with the Traffic Control Unit through designated helpline numbers for hassle-free transit of patients to hospitals.
The circular also emphasized the responsibility of all road users to yield to ambulances, especially those transporting patients to referral hospitals. Failure to provide passage to medical emergency vehicles constitutes a violation under Section 194E of the Motor Vehicle Act, with penalties including a fine of Rs 10,000 and imprisonment for up to six months, officials said.