Ranchi's Roads Plagued by Unfit Vehicles, Commuters Raise Safety Alarm
Ranchi's city roads have become increasingly hazardous due to a significant number of dilapidated and poorly maintained vehicles operating without proper fitness checks, according to commuters. Both government and private vehicles, ranging from municipal garbage carriers to water tankers and CNG-run autorickshaws, are contributing to this growing safety crisis.
Commuters Voice Grave Concerns Over Safety
Local residents have reported that the situation has deteriorated noticeably in recent months, with damaged vehicles frequently breaking down in mid-traffic or operating under unsafe conditions. The issue is particularly acute with autorickshaws, which often carry heavy passenger loads despite lacking basic safety features.
"I travel daily through Kutchery Road and Lalpur, and you can easily spot autos with broken indicators, dim lights or loose doors," said Nita Goel, an office-goer. "At night, it becomes extremely risky because many of them are barely visible. It feels like enforcement exists only on paper."
Another commuter, Anil Paswan at Harmu, expressed frustration with the apparent disconnect between official modernization efforts and ground reality. "Authorities talk about modernization, but on the ground, old and unfit vehicles are everywhere. Whether it's garbage vehicles or private autos, no one seems to be checking them. One major accident is enough to expose the negligence," he warned.
Government Vehicles Also Under Scrutiny
The Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) had previously inducted more than 300 garbage collection vehicles to streamline waste management operations. However, several older vehicles continue to operate despite visible wear and tear. Similar concerns persist around municipal water tankers and tractor-mounted units that show clear signs of deterioration.
Many of these vehicles lack fundamental safety components such as functional brakes, proper headlights, and valid fitness certificates. The growing fleet of CNG-run autorickshaws has particularly raised alarms due to their frequency on city roads and the passenger loads they carry.
Transport Department Responds to Concerns
District Transport Officer Akhilesh Kumar acknowledged the enforcement gaps, particularly concerning civic body vehicles. "Regarding RMC's dilapidated vehicles, we asked for a report some time ago. Once we receive it, we will take action," he stated.
Kumar emphasized that regular enforcement actions are underway against private unfit vehicles. "Action is being taken regularly against private unfit vehicles. We conduct inspections frequently and seize such vehicles," he assured, though commuters continue to report widespread non-compliance.
The situation highlights the urgent need for comprehensive vehicle fitness enforcement in Ranchi, as both government and private sectors contribute to the mounting road safety hazards that endanger commuters daily.
