The Kerala High Court has criticized state authorities for failing to improve roads, footpaths, and curb irresponsible heavy vehicle driving.
Justice Devan Ramachandran directed Kochi Corporation and the Kochi Commissioner of Police to report on steps taken regarding roads, streetlights, and footpaths. The court also instructed the National Highways Authority of India to file a statement on the status and conditions of highway construction on the Edapally-Chavakkad stretch.
An amicus curiae informed the court that heavy vehicles, including private buses, were using public roads recklessly, posing a threat to all road users. The court noted a recent incident in which a private bus employee allegedly accosted travellers in a car; police said necessary action was taken against the employee.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic) informed the court that regular campaigns would be conducted to curb traffic incidents in the city, especially concerning heavy vehicles. The police would subject private bus drivers and employees to verification, and character certificates would be issued appropriately. The court observed that heavy vehicles must conduct themselves carefully and ensure other road users remain unharmed.
The court expressed dissatisfaction, noting that despite recorded assurances from the authorities, road safety has not been given due importance, particularly at zebra crossings, pedestrian areas, and other points of high population density.
