Kaipamangalam accident: Collector orders joint safety inspection of national highways in Thrissur

THRISSUR: Thrissur District Collector Shikha Surendran has ordered a joint inspection of national highways in the district following the fatal accident at Kaipamangalam that claimed the lives of eight students from Tamil Nadu. A special team comprising officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), police, Motor Vehicles Department and local self-government institutions will carry out the inspection. The Collector has directed the team to submit its report by Wednesday evening.

The inspection will focus on several road safety issues. These include road maintenance, the condition of footpaths, potholes, waterlogging and lighting on service roads. The team will also check reflective signboards, illegal parking and proper barricading along the highways.

The safety of school students and pedestrians will also be assessed. Officials will examine the measures provided for students to cross roads safely. The structural stability of constructions and facilities available for pedestrians will also be reviewed.

The Motor Vehicles Department (RTO) will conduct a separate inspection as part of the drive. The Collector has directed the police and RTO to intensify special drives against illegal parking. She also directed officials to register cases against violators wherever necessary.