‘5,618 cases against pvt buses in 3 months’

Kochi: The state govt informed high court that a total of 5,618 petty cases were registered against private buses for traffic violations in Kochi city within the last three months. Additionally, 167 cases were charged against bus drivers, leading to a total fine of Rs 4.26 lakh.
The state made these submissions in an action taken report submitted before HC regarding an accident at Menaka Junction on March 14, in which a woman was killed. Upon perusing the report, Justice Devan Ramachandran commended the efforts of officials but emphasized that these efforts must be consistent and continuous. The court further remarked that unless road users acknowledge their responsibilities and act within their statutory limits, the situation will only worsen, particularly as the density of vehicles continues to rise. The bench directed the city police commissioner and transport commissioner to work in tandem to address these concerns. A further action report on the city's traffic issues is to be filed on the next posting date.
The bench was hearing petitions regarding the deteriorating condition of roads and footpaths in Kochi. The state govt further informed HC that restoration work on the footpaths along MG Road has commenced, and the senior govt pleader offered to submit periodic reports on its progress. Additionally, the bench instructed the Kochi corporation to take remedial measures to address the obstruction to water flow at the northern end of MG Road, where it joins Banerji Road.
The amicus curiae appointed by HC highlighted the issue of inadequate street lighting in Kochi, including on major roads and the national highway. News reports regarding the absence of street lighting between Edappally and Palarivattom were also brought to the court's attention. Kochi corporation's counsel stated that the corporation secretary would immediately look into the matter, restore lighting on all major roads and submit a report by the next hearing date.
The bench adjourned the petitions to April 9.