Now, identity cards must for auto-rickshaw drivers

April 15, 2015 12:00 am | Updated November 16, 2021 09:52 pm IST - SRIKAKULAM:

Identity cards have been made compulsory for all auto-rickshaw drivers in Srikakulam town and its surrounding areas to ensure safety of passengers, who are worried with the series of accidents caused by rash and negligent driving.

As part of the move, the name of drivers and other details will also be displayed on the backside of the vehicle, enabling passengers to lodge complaints in case of rash and negligent driving and misbehaviour.

Srikakulam SP A.S. Khan asked the Traffic Department to accord a top priority for creating awareness on road safety norms among the drivers. It is alleged that many auto drivers are running the vehicles without valid licence and undergoing proper training. Some of them are also indulging in drunken driving. Haphazard parking, impolite conservation with passengers and other complaints have become order of the day in Srikakulam, commuters allege.

As many as 800 auto-rickshaws are plying in Srikakulam and its surrounding areas such as Kalingapatnam, Gara, Narasannapeta and other mandals.

Many accidents are occurring on the NH5 and other routes with the overloading of passengers. Recently, police have banned the plying of autos on the NH5, causing uproar among the drivers. With their prolonged agitation, the department withdrew the ban, but framed guidelines to ensure passengers’ safety.

Srikakulam Traffic DSP P.Srinivasa Rao said that breath analyzers would be used to prevent drunken driving. “A vehicle equipped with camera will collect footage of vehicular movement. It will help us identify the traffic violators and take action against habitual offenders,” he added.

Meanwhile, the department allowed non-stop bus services to ply via Day and Night junction.

A vehicle equipped with camera will collect footage of vehicular movement. It will help us identify traffic violators

P. Srinivasa Rao,Srikakulam Traffic DSP

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