KSRTC double-decker buses in Munnar; all vehicles have equal rights on road, says High Court

KOCHI: The High Court has said that those who drive large vehicles and those who drive small vehicles have the same rights on the road. There is an increasing number of accidents at night where small vehicles that get in front of heavy vehicles with lights installed illegally, fall into gutters and other places. The division bench comprising Justice Anil K Narendran and Justice S Muralikrishna directed that an inquiry be conducted into the issue of vehicles with lights installed even on the front grills obtaining a registration certificate.

The court was considering a suo motu petition regarding the government's relaxation in the norms for KSRTC double-decker buses in Munnar. The government and KSRTC have to submit a report by the 13th detailing the steps taken so far. The petition will be considered again on the 5th. Photos of the driver's cabin and passenger compartment of the buses with lights on should also be submitted.

The court found from video footage that KSRTC Royal View tourist buses had more lights than permitted. Instead of four headlights, there were six. Multicoloured lights, including in the passenger cabin, are in violation of the Motor Vehicle Act. Lights on the side window glass and wheel arches.

Court observations

• Even lights used in commercial establishments are being installed in vehicles
• The light of the vehicle in front obscures the driver's vision
• Lights are being installed illegally after registration
• The lights inside the vehicle are for passengers to read books and other purposes
• The rules apply to government vehicles as well