In a decisive move to enhance public safety, the Udupi district administration has launched a strict crackdown on ready-mix concrete trucks operating in the region. Deputy Commissioner Swaroopa TK has issued a stern warning against overloading and directed officials to take immediate legal action against violators.
Stringent Action Against Concrete Spillage and Overloading
Chairing a recent Road Safety Committee meeting at Rajatadri, DC Swaroopa TK highlighted the growing menace of concrete spillage from overloaded transit mixer trucks. She noted that several such incidents have been reported across the district, leading to hazardous road conditions and disrupting smooth traffic flow. The spilled concrete hardens on roads, creating uneven surfaces that pose a severe threat, especially to two-wheeler riders.
Expressing serious concern, the DC instructed officials of the Regional Transport Office (RTO) to impose penalties and initiate stringent legal proceedings against vehicles found overloaded or responsible for concrete spillage. This directive comes in response to multiple public complaints about traffic disruptions and accidents caused by these practices.
Focus on Buses, Black Spots, and Parking Chaos
The deputy commissioner also addressed other critical road safety issues. She expressed dissatisfaction over buses stopping at undesignated locations, causing congestion, despite earlier instructions. Swaroopa TK directed authorities to register cases every month against buses violating norms. Furthermore, she ordered that all buses be fitted with doors, giving operators a fixed deadline to comply, failing which legal action would follow.
On infrastructure improvements, the DC informed that 18 accident-prone 'black spots' had been identified on district highways, with scientific road improvement measures recommended. While most works are complete, she asked concerned engineers to prioritize the remaining tasks to ensure safer traffic movement.
Stressing the role of public cooperation, she urged motorists to drive responsibly and follow traffic rules to prevent accidents.
Municipal and Traffic Management Directives
The meeting also saw directives for better urban management. The DC asked the City Municipal Council (CMC) commissioner to identify parking spaces within Udupi municipal limits. She called for the removal of unauthorized roadside encroachments with police support and, where feasible, the development of designated vending zones for street vendors.
Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar, who also addressed the meeting, suggested steps to regulate parking at autorickshaw stands. He also called for separate public meetings to discuss app-based taxi services in the Manipal area and sought a detailed report on the issue. The meeting was attended by senior officials from various departments.
This multi-pronged initiative underscores the district administration's commitment to tackling road safety hazards from multiple angles, targeting both commercial vehicle violations and systemic infrastructure flaws.
