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Exclusive Interview with Mudavath Kishan, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Road Transport Department, Mahabubnagar

In an exclusive interview with *The Hans India*, Mudavath Kishan, the Additional Deputy Commissioner of the Road Transport Department in Mahabubnagar, Telangana, provided an in-depth look into the functioning of the department, the challenges faced in ensuring road safety, and the initiatives being undertaken to improve transportation services and compliance in the region. Kishan, a seasoned official with extensive experience in the transport sector, shared his insights on a wide range of topics, including the enforcement of traffic rules, the role of technology in modernizing transport systems, and the department's efforts to address public grievances.

Kishan began by emphasizing the critical role of the Road Transport Department in maintaining order on the roads and ensuring the safety of commuters. He highlighted that Mahabubnagar, being a rapidly developing district with a mix of urban and rural areas, faces unique challenges in managing transportation. The district has seen a significant increase in vehicle ownership over the past decade, which has led to a corresponding rise in traffic congestion, accidents, and violations. Kishan noted that the department's primary objective is to create a safe and efficient transport ecosystem by enforcing regulations, educating the public, and collaborating with other government bodies.

One of the key areas of focus for Kishan and his team is road safety. He elaborated on the alarming rate of road accidents in the district, often caused by overspeeding, drunk driving, and non-compliance with helmet and seatbelt rules. To combat this, the department has intensified its enforcement drives, setting up regular checkpoints to monitor violations and impose penalties. Kishan stressed that while fines and penalties are necessary deterrents, the department is equally committed to raising awareness about safe driving practices. Campaigns and workshops are being conducted in schools, colleges, and public spaces to educate people, especially young drivers, about the importance of adhering to traffic rules. He believes that a combination of strict enforcement and public education is the most effective way to reduce accidents and save lives.

Another significant aspect of the department's work, as discussed by Kishan, is the regulation of commercial vehicles. Mahabubnagar serves as a transit hub for goods and passenger transport, with numerous buses, trucks, and autorickshaws operating daily. Ensuring that these vehicles meet safety and emission standards is a priority for the department. Kishan explained that regular inspections are carried out to check the fitness of vehicles, and strict action is taken against those found to be non-compliant. Overloading of goods vehicles, a common issue in the region, is also being addressed through surprise checks and hefty fines. Kishan underscored the importance of maintaining a balance between supporting the livelihoods of transport operators and ensuring that safety standards are not compromised.

Technology, according to Kishan, is playing a transformative role in the operations of the Road Transport Department. He spoke at length about the adoption of digital tools to streamline processes and improve transparency. For instance, the department has implemented online systems for vehicle registration, license issuance, and payment of fines, reducing the need for physical visits to RTO offices. This has not only saved time for the public but also minimized opportunities for corruption. Additionally, the use of CCTV cameras and automated traffic management systems at key junctions in Mahabubnagar has helped in monitoring traffic flow and identifying violators. Kishan revealed that plans are underway to expand the network of surveillance cameras and introduce more e-challan systems to ensure better compliance with traffic rules.

Public grievances and accessibility to transport services were also key points in the interview. Kishan acknowledged that delays in processing applications for licenses or vehicle registrations have been a common complaint among citizens. To address this, the department is working on reducing bureaucratic hurdles and improving staff efficiency. He encouraged the public to use online portals for faster service and assured that helplines and complaint mechanisms are in place to resolve issues promptly. Kishan also mentioned that the department is collaborating with local authorities to improve public transport infrastructure, such as bus stops and terminals, to make commuting more convenient for residents, especially in rural areas where access to reliable transport remains a challenge.

Environmental concerns were another topic of discussion during the interview. Kishan highlighted the department's commitment to reducing vehicular pollution in Mahabubnagar. He explained that strict emission norms are being enforced, and vehicles failing pollution tests are not allowed to operate until they meet the required standards. The department is also promoting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by creating awareness about government subsidies and incentives. Kishan expressed optimism about the future of green transportation in the district, noting that while the transition to EVs is still in its early stages, there is growing interest among residents and transport operators to switch to eco-friendly alternatives.

Kishan also touched upon the challenges posed by illegal transport operations, such as unauthorized taxis and autorickshaws. He admitted that curbing these activities requires constant vigilance and coordination with law enforcement agencies. The department has been conducting raids and imposing penalties on illegal operators, but Kishan emphasized the need for public cooperation in reporting such activities. He urged citizens to opt for registered and licensed transport services to ensure their safety and support legitimate operators.

In terms of future plans, Kishan shared that the Road Transport Department in Mahabubnagar is working on several long-term projects to enhance road safety and transport efficiency. These include the development of more driving test tracks to ensure that only qualified individuals receive licenses, the introduction of smart traffic signals to manage congestion, and the expansion of public transport services to underserved areas. He also mentioned that the department is exploring partnerships with private entities to improve infrastructure and bring in innovative solutions for traffic management.

Throughout the interview, Kishan reiterated his commitment to serving the people of Mahabubnagar and ensuring that the transport system in the district operates smoothly and safely. He acknowledged that while significant progress has been made, there is still a long way to go in addressing all the challenges. He called for greater public participation in adhering to traffic rules and supporting the department's initiatives. Kishan believes that a collective effort from the government, transport operators, and citizens is essential to create a model transport system that prioritizes safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

In conclusion, the interview with Mudavath Kishan provided a comprehensive overview of the Road Transport Department's operations in Mahabubnagar. From tackling road safety issues to embracing technology and addressing environmental concerns, the department under Kishan's leadership is taking multifaceted steps to improve transportation in the district. His vision for a safer, more efficient, and eco-friendly transport system reflects a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the sector. As Mahabubnagar continues to grow, the efforts of officials like Kishan will play a crucial role in shaping the future of mobility in the region, ensuring that it meets the needs of all its residents while prioritizing their safety and well-being.

Read the Full The Hans India Article at:
[ https://www.thehansindia.com/telangana/exclusive-interview-with-mudavath-kishan-additional-deputy-commissioner-road-transport-department-mahabubnagar-986022 ]