KOCHI: The negligent and rash driving of the long distance private buses has become a major concern for the commuters along the busy Tripunithura Vaikom Road. Though a series of accidents had been reported along the stretch, no effective steps were taken to rein in the over speeding buses.
These buses pay scant regard to traffic rules, and they are a nightmare for pedestrians and two-wheeler riders, especially during the rainy season. According to residents, the issue can be adequately addressed if the motor vehicle department (MVD) or traffic police authorities conduct regular inspections along the stretch.
Recently, flooded with the complaints against rash driving of private buses, the Udayamperoor police held an inspection drive along the Puthiyakavu – Poothotta stretch to rein in the killer buses. But, there was no improvement in the negligent driving of buses. Still now, major and minor accidents are being regularly reported from the stretch.
“We have recently conducted surprise checks to rein in over speeding buses and cases were registered against 20. More than 50 bus conductors and door checkers were fined for not having a licence. However, it is not feasible to conduct a regular inspection,” said S. Rajesh, SI, Udayamperoor.
Most of the drivers of long-distance buses are reckless, and they are not even bothered of police action. Only the MVD officials can control the rash driving as they can suspend the licence of offenders, feel the cops. Meanwhile, the Udayamperoor police authorities are planning to conduct random surprise checks this month on mufti along the stretch, Mr Rajesh said.
