Traffic calming proposed to reduce LPG tanker mishaps

Mangaluru: Frequent accidents of tankers transporting LPG gas from Mangaluru to various parts of the state has turned out to be a serious concern for the people in Dakshina Kannada, more so for those living on the stretches that directly connect this coastal city, where the LPG is loaded, to mainland territories.
With the latest case of an LPG tanker toppling being reported on Sunday, at least eight such accidents have been reported in the district in two months. This, on an average, corresponds to one case of gas tanker going off track and overturning every fortnight.

While over-speeding and negligent driving are held as among the primary reasons for such accidents, challenging curves on certain parts of the ghats and the complexities, including human errors, involved in driving a vehicle of that magnitude are also attributed to be the reasons. The bullet tanker itself is prone to toppling on experiencing minor hits, experts said.

Realising the gravity of such accidents, deputy commissioner Sasikanth Senthil had earlier convened a meeting with the gas tanker owners during which he directed them to ensure complete health of the vehicles before beginning a journey and updating the vehicle tracking software in addition to sensitising the drivers.

“We have had another round of meeting last week during which various aspects of these incidents were discussed. The outcome of the meeting was that we have decided to employ traffic calming mechanism at certain curves. A committee comprising representatives from petroleum companies and the National Highways is tasked with the responsibility of ensuring this,” Senthil told TOI.

Traffic calming is a measure to slow down fast-moving vehicle to a speed conducive for a given area.