Patna: Bihar’s Transport Department will launch a state-wide crackdown on the commercial misuse of private vehicles, following directives issued by Transport Minister Shravan Kumar. The minister accused owners and service agencies of evading rules and causing “significant financial loss” to the government.
Speaking at a review meeting in Chhapra, Kumar urged officials to “identify and prosecute” individuals who deploy private vehicles for commercial purposes without obtaining mandatory permits or fitness certificates. “This misuse cannot continue. The state’s revenue and regulatory systems are being compromised,” he said.
Officials reported that private vehicles are frequently being supplied to government departments, including those in mining and tourism, as well as hotels and private institutions, in place of legally licensed commercial fleets. Under current regulations, commercial vehicles must possess a valid permit and fitness certificate every two years for those under eight years old, and annually thereafter.
Permits are compulsory for stage carriage, contract carriage, freight vehicles, and tourist transport, generating a key portion of revenue for the transport department. Kumar warned that bypassing these requirements amounts to systematic evasion.
He directed authorities to inspect fleet operators, verify permits, and investigate agencies allegedly providing unlicensed vehicles to public bodies. “Rapid investigation is essential to ensure compliance and protect state revenue,” he added.
The department is expected to begin enforcement drives in multiple districts in the coming days.
