Operation on number plate to ease tracking of errant motorists - RTD

The Road Transport Department (RTD) Wednesday clarified that the operation on vehicle registration number plate which began on Nov 1 is to facilitate the tracking down of motorists with traffic offences.

RTD in a statement Wednesday said the clarification was given following criticisms on the enforcement, which the department said was related to seven main traffic offences contributing to road accidents and deaths.

"The offences include not strapping up the safety belt or putting on helmet, using mobile phone while driving, overtaking on double line, beating the traffic light, jumping queue, driving in the emergency lane and speeding," he said.

According to the statement, the controlling measure on the seven main offences could only be implemented if the vehicles could be identified through a clear registration number plate, which was not confusing and made according to set specifications.

"For example, in many hit and run cases, the offenders could not be detected as the victim or complainant could not state the registration number as it was not clear or difficult to read.

"Apart from that, the operation is also aimed at detecting vehicles which displayed false number plate to evade criminal activities or enforcement," he said.

RTD also clarified that the vehicle registration number plate operation was also aimed at ensuring public compliance with the law.