Kozhikode: The intensified vehicle check by motor vehicle department (MVD) during the summer vacation has exposed 256 underaged drivers from various parts of the district. The MVD is now on a mission to curb underage drivers who lead to several accidents.
According to the MVD officials, less than 40 cases of underage driving were booked in March and February but it has gone up to 256 now. As per the MVD rules, an applicant who has completed 16 years is eligible to apply for a licence to drive a below 55-cc motorcycle subject to parental consent.
“But our youngsters who have lost their patience prefer or opt for powerful 100 cc and 150 cc bikes,” regional transport officer K. Premanandan said. "Even Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has come forward with a request for stringent checks on underage drivers."
"If a minor driver were caught during any of our inspections, action would be taken against parents besides a fine of '1,500. Parents will have to attend a compulsory counselling programme of MVD," he further said.
The MVD has also booked youngsters for using a car without any driving licence. Educational institutions have also been instructed to keep an eye on students below the age group of 18 riding motor vehicles to schools.
