Kerala Human Rights Commission Takes Action Against Reckless Bus Driving in Kochi
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has issued a strong directive to the motor vehicles department and police authorities, mandating immediate and unannounced inspections to tackle the escalating issues of overspeeding and alleged racing by private buses operating within Kochi city. This decisive move comes as a direct response to mounting public safety concerns and recent tragic incidents on the roads.
Suo Motu Case Initiated Based on Media Reports
The commission formally registered a suo motu case after reviewing alarming media reports detailing dangerous driving practices. SHRC Chairperson Justice Alexander Thomas has personally overseen the matter, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. In his instructions, he specifically highlighted the need for intensified monitoring along the Chittoor–Cheranalloor route, a corridor notorious for frequent complaints of reckless and high-speed bus operations.
Plain-Clothes Officials and Detailed Route Assessment
In a strategic approach to gather firsthand evidence, the commission has recommended deploying officials in plain clothes to travel as passengers on buses where racing allegations are most severe. This covert method aims to allow authorities to directly assess driver behavior and road conditions, enabling swift legal action if any traffic violations are confirmed during these observational journeys.
Recent Accidents Prompt Urgent DirectiveThe commission's directive follows a distressing series of three separate accidents occurring in the area within just a two-week period. These incidents have underscored the critical need for immediate intervention to prevent further loss of life and property.
Infrastructure Challenges and Safety Risks
A detailed report submitted by panchayat member K G Rajesh outlines significant infrastructure limitations exacerbating the danger. The report notes that the narrow road width cannot safely accommodate two buses moving side by side, creating a high-risk environment for collisions. Furthermore, in the Chittoor area, vehicles must traverse a slab laid across a canal, adding to the peril of the stretch.
Smaller vehicles, including auto-rickshaws and motorcycles, frequently face near-miss situations as they attempt to avoid high-speed buses, the report emphasized, calling for urgent remedial measures to protect all road users.Commission Demands Comprehensive Action and Accountability
The SHRC has directed the regional transport officer to conduct a thorough examination of all complaints and to actively collect inputs from the local panchayat representative to ensure community concerns are addressed. An action taken report is required to be submitted by the authorities, with a hearing scheduled at the Pathadipalam Rest House on March 3 at 10 am.
The Joint RTO has been specifically instructed to be present at this hearing, ensuring direct accountability and facilitating a transparent review of the steps taken to implement the commission's directives. This proactive stance by the SHRC aims to restore public confidence and enhance road safety across Kochi's bus routes.
