Punjab Government Takes Bold Step to Stop Harassment in RTO Offices

In a significant move to address public grievances and eliminate exploitation by middlemen, the Punjab government has introduced stringent measures in government offices, particularly in Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). To ensure transparency and accountability, CCTV cameras have been installed across all RTO offices in the state, allowing the government to closely monitor operations.Recently, the Vigilance Department conducted raids on Transport Department offices, apprehending several agents and staff members for questioning. Such actions were prompted by recurring complaints about the influence of middlemen in RTOs, who allegedly exploited citizens despite the availability of an online system designed to streamline services and reduce dependency on intermediaries.To tackle these issues, the Punjab Transport Department has mandated the installation of CCTV cameras in all RTO offices statewide. These cameras are strategically placed at key locations, including main entrances, driving test areas, and tracks used for license tests. The surveillance feeds will be monitored from the Transport Department’s headquarters in Chandigarh, utilizing advanced audio-visual systems to ensure thorough oversight.Anil Kumar, Assistant Superintendent of the Transport Department, explained that RTO Ranpreet Singh oversees operations in two districts. He highlighted that three cameras have been installed in the Gurdaspur RTO office alone. Kumar assured that strict measures are in place to prevent any harassment of citizens visiting for services and to ensure that middlemen are completely barred from interfering in office operations.This initiative reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to improving transparency and delivering hassle-free services to the public.