Kerala HC raps authorities over road safety failures, reckless driving by heavy vehicles
Court directs Kochi Corporation and Kochi Commissioner of Police to report on steps taken to address concerns regarding roads, streetlights and footpaths
The Kerala High Court has scolded state authorities for neglecting road safety, reckless driving by heavy vehicles. Justice Devan Ramachandran asked Kochi Corporation and Commissioner of Police to report on steps taken to tackle issues with roads, streetlights, footpaths. The National Highways Authority of India must also provide an update on highway construction progress on the Edapally-Chavakkad stretch.
An amicus curiae warned that heavy vehicles, including private buses, are driving "recklessly" on public roads, endangering all road users. The court cited a recent case where a private bus worker allegedly harassed car passengers. Police said the employee faced action. The Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic) said campaigns would curb traffic incidents, focusing on heavy vehicles.
Police will perform background checks on private bus drivers and employees, issuing character certificates. The court stressed heavy vehicles must drive cautiously, protecting other road users. It expressed frustration that despite authorities' promises, road safety remains insufficient, especially at crosswalks, pedestrian zones, and densely populated areas.
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