Thiruvananthapuram: Overcrowding autos to be reined in

Thiruvananthapuram: Autorickshaws crowding schoolchildren would have to pay Rs 1000 per extra passenger with the implementation of the new rule.

Overcrowded vehicles ferrying schoolchildren pose a threat to the safety of children travelling in it, and this has become a common sight in the state.

Most of the autorickshaws in the city could be seen transporting even ten children.

As per the Motor Vehicle Act, only three male passengers are allowed in an autorickshaw.

As per section 194 A, overloading of passengers would mean Rs 1000 per extra passenger, not only applicable for autorickshaws but also contract carriers, stage carriers and private vehicles.

Consumer rights activist Dijo Kappan told DC that a transport bus generally has 48 seats. The law allowed around 25 per cent extra passengers in standing position. However, the police or the motor vehicle department does not take action against private or KSRTC buses for overcrowding.

In private cars, anything above the seating capacity is overload. Moreover, as per law, only personal belongings can be carried in the dickey of the car as luggage. Taking commodities in the dickey can also be treated as overloading, said Mr Kappan.

As per section 194 C, overloading of two-wheelers is punishable with a fine of Rs 2,000 and disqualification for three months for the licence. Only two persons can travel on a two-wheeler.

As per the section of 194, overloading of goods vehicles can invite a fine of Rs 20,000 and Rs 2,000 per extra tonne. That means a truck with a capacity of 10 tonnes could only carry a load of 10 tonnes, said Mr Kappan.