Transport Commissioner orders to penalize use of umbrellas during two-wheeler rides

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Transport Commissioner has ordered to take legal action against those traveling on scooters and bikes with umbrellas. Transport Commissioner MR Ajithkumar gave strict instructions to RTOs in this regard. From now on, it is suggested to penalize such passengers during vehicle inspection. According to the Department of Transport, the offense is punishable by a fine of between Rs 1,000 and Rs 5,000.

The law applies to both drivers and pillion passengers. Under the current traffic law, traveling with an umbrella is illegal but not strictly enforced. It was decided to tighten the law as the number of accidents increased. Fourteen people are reported to have died due to the use of umbrellas in two wheelers over the past two years. Several people have been left injured. Those who are in the pillion seat are most at risk. When the pillion passengers open their umbrellas, strong winds will naturally blow in the opposite direction of the vehicle. In strong winds, the vehicle loses control as the control over the umbrella loses, resulting in more accidents. Accidents can also occur when the pillion passenger holds the umbrella in front of the driver.