Bhubaneswar/Cuttack: The State Transport Authority (STA) of Odisha has issued a public warning regarding fraudulent activities in Sundargarh district, where certain individuals are illegally collecting money from vehicle drivers under the guise of conducting road safety campaigns. According to reports, these individuals have been using misleading banners to deceive the public.
The STA in public advisory on Monday clarified that no official permission has been granted for such activities and urged vehicle drivers and owners not to fall victim to this scam.
“This activity is completely illegal. Drivers are advised not to trust or pay any money to these individuals,” the STA said in a public advisory.
In response to the issue, Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur has instructed the Regional Transport Office (RTO) of Sundargarh to take the matter seriously and immediately file a police complaint against those involved. Commissioner Thakur has also discussed the issue with the District Collector and Superintendent of Police (SP) of Sundargarh to ensure swift action.
Further instructions have been sent to all RTOs across the state, urging them to remain vigilant and act promptly if similar incidents are reported in their respective regions.
These fraudulent activities, which primarily target trucks and buses from other states, are more prevalent in border districts and mining areas. Many of those responsible are reportedly from outside Odisha.
Thakur expressed his concern about the growing issue, stating, “These individuals are deceiving the public in the name of road safety, but legal actions are being initiated to stop such scams. We urge the public to report any suspicious activities to the local transport authorities immediately.”
Local administrations have been urged to take immediate measures to halt these illegal operations and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
