Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has instructed officials in Uttarakhand to implement rigorous inspection campaigns to verify driving licenses and other vehicle-related documents for vehicles entering from other states. This directive follows a tragic bus accident in Bhimtal that resulted in the loss of five lives.

To promote safer road conditions, particularly in the state's hilly regions, Dhami has urged the relevant authorities to enhance their surveillance against traffic violations. According to reports from news agency ANI, while local vehicles will also be subject to inspection, there will be a particular emphasis on vehicles not registered in Uttarakhand. With the recent surge in tourist activity due to the winter holiday season, officials have been mandated to ensure that traffic regulations are enforced without exception.

The recent incident in Bhimtal has led to heightened vigilance among officials in the state. In addition to the five fatalities, 21 individuals sustained injuries and required urgent medical attention, necessitating their airlift to AIIMS Rishikesh. The bus, which was traveling from Pithoragarh to Haldwani, reportedly veered off course and fell into a 100-meter deep ditch in the Bhimtal area of Nainital district.

Key tips when driving in the hills

Driving in hilly areas necessitates heightened caution from all drivers, whether they are locals or visitors. Patience is essential when operating a vehicle or riding a motorcycle, and adherence to traffic regulations is paramount.

Overtaking on a hilly curve is strongly discouraged. It is advisable to wait for the vehicle ahead to indicate that it is safe to pass. Always utilize your vehicle's dipper to signal your intentions to the driver in front, and refrain from excessive honking to gain an advantage.

When nearing a curve or bend in the road, it is prudent to sound your horn to alert any oncoming traffic. Additionally, keeping the volume of music in the vehicle low is advisable to ensure that you can hear horns from vehicles approaching from around the bend.

It is important to remember that on mountain roads, the right of way is granted to the vehicle ascending, rather than the one descending. 

At night, high beams should be used judiciously, and the dipper function should be employed to notify oncoming traffic of your presence. 

In conditions where icy roads or snow are anticipated, it is vital to equip your vehicle with snow chains, particularly if the tires are not designed for winter conditions. It is also wise to have a tow chain and jumper cables on hand for emergencies.

Lastly, it is critical to understand that speeding, driving under the influence, and operating a vehicle in the wrong lane can be extremely hazardous in hilly terrain.

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