Bhubaneswar, 02 September (H.S.): More than 40 lakh vehicles in Odisha are currently operating without valid insurance, Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena said on Wednesday, urging vehicle owners to keep all mandatory documents updated.

Jena said the state government has directed the Transport Department to intensify enforcement drives against vehicles operating without valid insurance and other required documents.

“Insurance is mandatory for vehicles plying on the roads, and we are keeping a close watch on the issue. In our state, more than 40 lakh vehicles still do not have valid insurance,” Jena said while speaking to the media.

The minister said the department has been instructed to conduct strict enforcement drives and take action against violators. Alongside enforcement, the government is also working to create greater awareness among vehicle owners about the importance of maintaining valid insurance coverage.

Jena urged vehicle owners to ensure that all necessary documents are in place to promote road safety. These include a valid fitness certificate, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate, insurance, Registration Certificate (RC) and Driving Licence (DL).

He also appealed to the public to comply with transport regulations and renew vehicle insurance within the stipulated period to avoid legal action.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda