State Transport Authority cracks down on illegal DJ vans ahead of festive season for road safety

Bhubaneswar: In view of accidents linked to DJ vans, the State Transport Authority (STA) has prohibited the use of illegally modified vehicles. Ahead of the festive season, the transport department also urged people to verify whether hired DJ vehicles are properly registered and compliant with safety norms.Officials said that several vehicles across the state are being illegally altered in violation of the Motor Vehicles Act. Modifications include changes in vehicle height, length and width, installation of loudspeakers, multi-coloured flashing lights and unsafe equipment setups. The transport department clarified that there is no legal provision for ‘DJ vans’ under the Act, and such modifications pose grave risks to road users.“Illegal DJ vehicles are a major source of noise pollution and distraction on the roads. Alterations to their structure have also led to short circuits, imbalance and serious accidents. The department will enforce the law in its strictest form to protect public safety,” the STA circular read.Under sections 190 (2) and Section 182(A)(4) of the MV Act, offenders will face heavy fines, while registration and fitness certificates of such vehicles will be cancelled as per sections 53 and 56(4). Use of LED, laser or neon lights not conforming to AIS-008 specifications, along with DJ systems, amplifiers, mixers and laser controllers, has also been declared illegal.The transport department has announced special checks during night and festive season to curb the menace. Public awareness drives will also be launched to educate vehicle owners and operators on safety standards.“Road safety is a collective responsibility. Violations not only break the law but also turn celebrations into tragedies. The crackdown on DJ vans is aimed purely at strengthening road safety across Odisha,” the STA said. Police support has also been sought to ensure strict enforcement during the festive season.The transport department highlighted several accidents caused by DJ vehicles in recent years. In May, a DJ van in Cuttack caught fire following a short circuit, leaving two persons critically injured. In March 2024, a DJ vehicle overturned in Bargarh, injuring 15 people after the driver lost control due to excessive lighting. In Nov 2023, two persons were killed in Ganjam when a motorbike collided with a DJ vehicle, blinded by its flashing lights.However, the ban ahead of the festive and wedding season has raised concerns among DJ vehicle owners. “The ban is a direct hit on the livelihood of hundreds of DJ vehicle owners and their staff. We get work during the festive and wedding season. For the irresponsible behaviour of a few vehicles, a complete ban is not the right decision,” said Ramesh Patnaik, a DJ vehicle owner in the city.