Passengers refuse to wear lifejackets once worn by others
Kochi: Enforcement of the much-hyped order making life-jackets mandatory for people travelling in passenger boats in Kochi backwaters by the police seems to have fizzled out.
A majority of boat riders, especially daily commuters of State Water Transport Department (SWTD), are refusing to wear the safety equipment even as the authorities cite their helplessness in strictly implementing the order issued on September 26.
"The commuters refuse to wear lifejackets despite our repeated requests. Now the services are conducted even without them wearing lifejackets," said a crew member on the condition of anonymity.
When contacted, M. Satyan, SWTD Traffic Superintendent, said the passengers are refusing to wear lifejackets "once worn by other passengers".
"We're trying our best to implement the order but the commuters are not co-operating. All boats have enough lifejackets for each passenger. I've met the police commissioner and requested for relaxation for passenger boats citing the practical difficulty," he said.
SWTD employees say initially, the cops conducted inspections to ensure that the direction is followed but now there is no checking.
"There is a possibility of spreading of infectious diseases if worn by so many passengers. The safety equipment should be stored in the boat and upon any emergency situation, we'll wear the same. However, wearing every time for a 10-minute ride is not practical though the same should be strictly implemented in tourist boats where the rides last for nearly an hour," said Rinto Mathew, a Fort Kochi native.
The cops had issued a notice to the SWTD authorities and tour boat operators last week warning of legal action under Section 336 of the IPC (an act endangering life or personal safety of others) and 118 (E) of Kerala Police Act (Penalty for causing grave violation of Public Order or danger) of the riders were found not wearing life jackets.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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