In a significant move aimed at enhancing road safety, the Uttar Pradesh government has issued directives prohibiting individuals below the age of 18 from operating any two or four-wheeled vehicles in public spaces.

The Transport department, in collaboration with educational institutions, will rigorously implement these guidelines following the government’s announcement.

To raise awareness and promote compliance, a campaign will be launched, targeting the youth and emphasising the importance of responsible driving. Additionally, students will receive information on road safety through various mediums. As part of this initiative, every school will establish a Road Safety Club, with one student designated as the road safety captain in each class.

Furthermore, each school will integrate road safety education into the curriculum, ensuring that students are well-informed about safe practices. To facilitate this, a teacher in each school will be appointed as the nodal officer, receiving both online and offline training in collaboration with the Transport department.

In a parallel effort, stringent measures will be taken to discourage children below the age of 18 from operating motor vehicles. Awareness campaigns will emphasise not only the legal consequences but also the potential dangers associated with underage driving.

A government official said the state government had issued fresh guidelines imposing a complete ban on individuals below 18 years from driving two-wheelers or cars, taking a firm stand to prevent such incidents.

“If minors are found violating this regulation, the full responsibility will fall on their parents,” the guidelines said.

The new guidelines are clear that parents or vehicle owners providing bikes, scooters or cars to minors for driving could face a three-year imprisonment along with a hefty fine of Rs 25,000. Additionally, if a minor is caught driving, his or her driving licence will only be issued after reaching the age of 25.

This comprehensive approach, combining educational and regulatory measures, aims to create a safer environment on the roads and instill a sense of responsibility among young individuals when it comes to vehicular activities.