Why is Kerala Cracking Down on Illegal Air Horns?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kerala's Motor Vehicle Department demonstrates a strong commitment to enforcing traffic laws.
- Nearly 200 illegal air horns were crushed to deter future violations.
- The operation was part of a larger initiative to reduce noise pollution.
- Transport Minister K. B. Ganesh Kumar emphasizes the importance of road safety.
- Continued inspections across the state aim to ensure compliance with traffic regulations.
Kochi, Oct 20 (NationPress) In a stunning show of enforcement, the Kerala Motor Vehicle Department on Monday demolished around 200 illegal air horns with a road roller in Kochi, part of a statewide initiative against noise pollution and traffic violations.
The operation was executed under the direction of Transport Minister K. B. Ganesh Kumar, a politician known for his film background, who has mandated strict measures to tackle the widespread usage of air horns throughout the state. This initiative focuses on enhancing road safety and ensuring adherence to traffic laws.
Numerous television news teams converged to document the destruction, highlighting the government's zero-tolerance policy towards illegal vehicle modifications.
This enforcement campaign targets vehicles, notably private and inter-state buses, equipped with air horns that do not comply with motor vehicle regulations.
Since October 13, officials have been inspecting various locations in Kochi and neighboring districts, confiscating numerous air horns and meticulously documenting the seized items.
Minister Ganesh Kumar, who has actively participated in several prominent enforcement operations in recent weeks, emphasized the necessity of this campaign.
“This practice must cease. We are taking firm action to ensure compliance,” he stated.
The crackdown was prompted by a recent incident in Kothamangalam, where a bus driver allegedly sounded an air horn while speeding into a bus stand, inciting public outrage. The driver’s license was later suspended, and the vehicle's permit was revoked.
Alongside roadside inspections, authorities have advised hostels, buses, and other vehicles to maintain appropriate documentation and strictly follow traffic laws.
Officials mentioned that the public destruction of air horns aims to act as a deterrent and set a strong precedent. Similar enforcement operations are anticipated in other districts shortly.
This initiative embodies the Kerala government’s dedication to diminishing noise pollution, bolstering road safety, and ensuring strict compliance with traffic regulations.