Puri, Jul 1: The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Puri has carried out a major enforcement drive during the Snana Purnima festival, issuing 95 challans in a single day against vehicles violating transport rules.

The crackdown targeted buses and autos charging fares above the prescribed rates, carrying excess passengers, and operating without valid licenses or documents.

According to officials, over the course of two days, nearly 205 challans were issued, resulting in fines exceeding ₹17 lakh.

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On Snana Purnima day alone, 95 challans were imposed, collecting penalties worth ₹9,85,915. The day before the festival, 110 challans were issued against vehicle owners for similar violations, with fines amounting to ₹7,25,337, of which ₹1,60,032 was collected immediately.

The enforcement drive was conducted across major roads connecting Puri and at several key points within the district to ensure safe, smooth, and organized travel for devotees arriving for the festival.

The RTO’s enforcement squad carried out extensive vehicle checks, focusing on compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act and passenger safety norms.

Officials emphasized that the primary objective was to safeguard pilgrims and maintain disciplined traffic flow during the heavy influx of visitors.

The RTO has warned that such enforcement actions will continue in the coming days to deter violations and ensure strict adherence to transport regulations.

District administration sources confirmed that the initiative was part of a broader plan to provide secure and hassle‑free travel during the Rath Yatra season, when Puri witnesses one of the largest gatherings of devotees.