KOZHIKODE: Motorists not wearing helmets or tightening seat belts were in for a surprise at Mundikkalthazham near Medical College on Monday.
They found an unexpected face warning them against the violations - transport minister A.K. Saseendran.
He led the awareness campaign in the wake of increased fine and strict enforcement envisaged in the new Bill that the Rajya Sabha adopted last week.
Along with RTO officials, Mr Saseendran gave free advice to many violators on the necessity of wearing helmets and seatbelts.
Seeing the minister himself on the road, they assured him to obey the traffic rules in one voice. He patted those who followed the rules.
Later addressing reporters, he expressed concern over violating rules though most of the public are aware of it.
"Apart from awareness, strict punishment also is necessary for reducing accidents," he said.
The vehicle check that started at 10 a.m. continued for almost an hour.
The campaign of the transport department would continue till August 31.
A police team headed by city police commissioner A.V. George also accompanied him.
Deputy transport commissioner T.C. Vinesh, Kozhikode RTO M.P. Subhash Babu and Kozhikode enforcement RTO Shabeer, besides motor vehicle inspectors, assistant MVIs, also were present.
