Port Blair, March 19: The Hon’ble Supreme Court vide their judgement dated 5/3/2013 in SLP(C) No. 12125/2010, has issued directions for strict implementation of Protection of Aboriginal Tribes (PAT) (Amendment) Regulation, 2012 and also the orders issued there under (i.e new Buffer Zone notification dated 17/01/2013). The Administration must ensure that the traffic in the ATR should be continued to be regulated carefully for all the persons travelling namely Government Officials, Settlers, Providers of goods and services and other visitors.

In view of this, the general public is advised that no violation of the PAT Regulation or instructions should take place while travelling in the stretch of ATR passing through Tribal Reserve area. Further, it is advised that all road users shall carry their identity documents while purchasing tickets as well as while travelling through the stretch of ATR. They are also advised not to use photo capturing devices while travelling through the ATR. All vehicle owners/ drivers have to provide declaration in the prescribed format containing details viz, name, address, place and details of Identity proof etc. along with an undertaking that they will abide by the PAT Regulation. All owners of contract carriage vehicles, stage carriage vehicles, tour operators and the crews of the vehicles are also advised to sensitize the passengers travelling in the vehicles on the precautions to be taken while travelling on ATR prior to commencement of the journey. Strict action would be taken against owners of vehicles, tour operators, taxi drivers and road users, if there is any violation of PAT Regulation which may also lead to cancellation of permits and licenses.