Dhanbad, Oct. 2 -- Authorities in Dhanbad and Bokaro have stepped up measures against illegal parking of heavy and commercial vehicles on highways and major roads, with Dhanbad collecting around Rs.5.5 lakh in fines from 65 vehicles and Bokaro directing truck operators to keep key road stretches free from parking. In Dhanbad, a National Highway Task Force conducted a special enforcement drive following directions from DM Aditya Ranjan. The joint operation involved the district transport officer, motor vehicle inspector, district road safety team, police personnel and the NHAI's route patrolling vehicle team. Dhanbad district transport officer Diwakar C Dwivedi said the action was aimed at preventing accidents and ensuring smooth movement of traffic on national highways. "Vehicles should not be parked illegally on highways or along the carriageway. Drivers must use designated parking areas so that traffic remains safe and uninterrupted," he said. The task force also conducted road-safety awareness among drivers and the public, urging them to avoid roadside parking and use designated parking slots. In Bokaro, transport officer Maruti Minz held a meeting with representatives of Bokaro Truck Association to address illegal parking and traffic safety. The meeting discussed problems arising from heavy vehicles parked along the Jodhadih Mor-ITI Mor, BIADA, Kandra, and Naya Mor-Duggal Gate stretches. Minz directed that no truck or heavy vehicle be parked on the main road between Jodhadih More and ITI Mor. Vehicles must remain outside the white side line and main carriageway and use available lay-bys or designated safe parking areas. She also directed drivers to ensure functional parking, side and other lights and visible number plates. In case of breakdowns or accidents, she asked reflective tape, traffic cones and warning signs be placed....