The Kerala High Court on Thursday sought a detailed report from the transport commissioner regarding the tragic accident that occurred on April 17, when a van veered off the Valparai Ghat-Pollachi road, resulting in the deaths of 10 tourists, including six schoolteachers.
Court's Observations on Unauthorized Vehicle Modifications
A bench comprising Justices Anil K Narendran and S Muralee Krishna issued the directive while hearing a suo motu case concerning unauthorized vehicle modifications. During the proceedings, the court noted that the driver's cabin of the van involved in the accident was reportedly fitted with illegal flashlights, which violated the Motor Vehicles Act and Rules. The bench further directed the commissioner to submit the report within 10 days.
Details of the Accident
The van was carrying a group of schoolteachers on an excursion from Pang in Malappuram district. Around 5:15 pm on April 17, the vehicle veered off the 13th hairpin bend on the ghat road, within the limits of the Kadamparai police station, and plunged several hundred feet into a steep gorge. Ten tourists died in the accident, while three others sustained serious injuries.
Evidence of Flashlights
The court observed that flickering lights from the flashlights were visible in videos reportedly posted by the travelers shortly before the accident. Based on this, the bench sought a comprehensive report from the transport commissioner and adjourned the matter to June 16.
