Fri Sep 12 15:03:23 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Underage Driving Crackdown in Tirunelveli; Parents and Schools Warned**
TIRUNELVELI, September 12, 2025 – Regional Transport Officer (RTO) S. Vinayagam has issued a stern warning to parents and educational institutions in Tirunelveli against allowing underage children to ride two-wheelers or drive vehicles. The announcement was made during a road safety and consumer protection awareness meeting held today.
Mr. Vinayagam emphasized that individuals under the age of 18 are ineligible for a driver’s license and are therefore prohibited from operating any vehicle. He stated that anyone found violating this rule will face legal repercussions, including parents who knowingly permit their children to break the law. Cases will be registered against them as well.
Furthermore, he stressed the serious consequences that underage drivers face should they be involved in accidents. The police will file cases against them. He directly addressed heads of educational institutions, urging them to prevent juveniles from riding bikes to school and instructing college principals to enforce mandatory helmet usage for all two-wheeler riders. Institutions are required to inform parents whose students violate these rules.
Responding to concerns raised by meeting participants, Mr. Vinayagam pledged to take action against vehicles using illegal air-horns that cause noise pollution. He also assured them that he would forward the request for night bus services between the new bus stand and Tirunelveli Junction, extending to Pettai, to the government.
The RTO’s strong stance reflects an increased focus on road safety and the prevention of accidents involving underage drivers in the Tirunelveli region. The public is urged to cooperate and adhere to these regulations.
First Piper 