Traffic Police Remove Covers From 1,500 Autos In Vijayawada
The police instructed auto drivers not to install closed covers: Reports
VIJAYAWADA: Vijayawada traffic police have removed closed covers from around 1,500 autorickshaws during a special drive conducted over the past two days to prevent road accidents and ensure passenger safety. The inspections were carried out at major traffic junctions across the NTR police commissionerate limits.
The drive was launched on the instructions of police commissioner S.V. Raja Sekhara Babu under the supervision of traffic DCP Shirin Begum and traffic ACPs. Traffic inspectors and their teams are conducting the inspections.
Police officials said closed rear covers obstructed drivers' visibility of vehicles approaching from behind, increasing the risk of accidents while overtaking and turning. They also said fully covered autorickshaws prevented outsiders from noticing passengers, particularly women and children, potentially compromising their safety.
The police instructed auto drivers not to install closed covers, overload their vehicles, not to use mobile phones while driving or not to drive under the influence of alcohol. Drivers were also asked to carry valid registration certificates, driving licences, fitness certificates and insurance documents. They were advised to take extra precautions while transporting schoolchildren.
Autorickshaw registration numbers and the emergency helpline 112 must be displayed behind the driver’s seat for passengers to see. Violators will face fines under the Motor Vehicles Act, while vehicles involved in serious violations may be seized.
The police said the inspections would continue and appealed to autorickshaw drivers to cooperate with the drive.
