THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Road Safety Authority (KRSA) has taken note of the fatal road accidents in state during the first two phases of lockdown and sought strict intervention by law enforcement agencies KRSA commissioner N Shanker Reddy formally directed the police and motor vehicles department (MVD) to ensure the presence of law enforcers at important traffic corridors across the state so that further accidents can be prevented.
TOI had earlier reported that the state recorded 483 road accidents that claimed 64 lives. Though these figures are low compared to the same period last year, it was considered alarming as these accidents happened when major factors that contribute to accidents were absent.
Peak hour rush, drunk driving and night-time driving were the three major causes that contributed to most road accidents. These three factors were absent between March 25 and May 3 when total lockdown was enforced and people were allowed to go out only for essential services.
In a letter forwarded to state police chief and transport commissioner, Reddy called for joint enforcement by police and MVD officers on major transport corridors. Field officers must be directed to strictly enforce speed limits during the pandemic so that public health and medical resources are spared to tackle pandemic emergencies rather than road accident cases.
He has also called for an awareness campaign for drivers as a precautionary measure for monsoon season and frequent speed checks. Special care must be taken to prevent LPG/petroleum tanker lorry accidents.
Source: Times of India
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