Out of the 38,481 road accidents that took place in the State in 2017, 22,459 involved two-wheelers. A majority of them happened at night and because of racing. The Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) is planning to intensify its drive against racing and alteration of two-wheelers.
The highest number of road accidents involving two-wheelers last year — 5,277 — had been reported from Ernakulam district, followed by 2,931 in Alappuzha; 2,631 in Thiruvananthapuram; and 2,481 in Kozhikode district. The MVD is intensifying its drive in the wake of complaints that motorcyclists are indulging in racing
Thunderous noise of such modified motorcycles poses a serious health hazard to the ailing and aged commuters. Speeding and zigzag rides along narrow roads, jeopardising the safety of other road users, is another concern.
Motorcycles are customised in the name of beautification after registration.
Legal steps
Transport Commissioner K. Padmakumar has asked motor vehicle inspectors and assistant motor vehicle inspectors to keep a tab on racing. Instead of chasing the offenders, the officials had been asked to take note of the registration numbers and to take legal steps under Section 52 of the Motor Vehicles Act, Mr. Padmakumar said.
The department has also noticed that those below 18 years of age are riding motorcycles. In case minors are found to be racing with altered motorcycles, officials are asked to inform their parents over telephone.
The State Transport Commissioner said the public could inform the authorities of racing and speeding incidents with proof at Ph: 7025950100 and their identity will be kept confidential.
The MVD has also decided to keep a watch on automobile workshops that carry out alteration of motorcycles.
