Staff Reporter

Panaji

Following a rise in accidents, the transport department has launched a compliance drive targeting taxis and rent-a-cars to ensure the installation and functioning of speed governors.

For years, the issue of speed governors has simmered without strict enforcement. However, recent incidents involving rent-a-cars and a rise in accidents prompted the transport department to take action. The deadline for the compliance was set for April 7, and authorities are now cracking down on non-compliant vehicles. No further extension has been given to fit the speed governors.

To ensure adherence to the rules, Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) are refusing to renew fitness certificates for vehicles that lack proper speed governor installation. The move aims to compel vehicle owners to comply promptly.

The transport department refuted claims that fitness certificates were previously issued without speed governors. They said that certificates were denied to vehicles with tampered devices or lacking annual compliance certificates from suppliers.

However, taxi and rent-a-car owners said many vehicles have the device installed since 2016. However, RTOs rarely checked whether the speed governors were in operating condition.

Now, the challenge lies in reactivating the device and ensuring it is compatible with BS standard engines and operators are struggling to identify vendors supplying compliant speed-limiting devices, especially given the limited choice of suppliers within the state.

A major hurdle faced by vehicle owners is the high cost of speed governors. These are sold at nearly Rs 10,000 in Goa, making them a significant investment. In contrast, neighbouring states offer more affordable options, leaving Goan operators in a dilemma.

Transport officials said that speed governors devices are essential for reducing accidents on the road. They said that commercial vehicles must comply with this safety measure.

However, rent-a-car operators said that accidents occur even at low speeds due to negligent driving and pushed for holding drivers accountable rather than penalising vehicle owners.