The district administration of Udupi in Karnataka has taken a decisive step to enhance road safety by making speed governors compulsory for a specific category of vehicles. This move aims to tackle the rising concern of accidents involving heavy transport.
New Safety Rule for Heavy Vehicles
In a recent official order, the Udupi district administration has mandated the installation of speed governors for all vehicles with six or more wheels. This directive, issued by District Collector Dr. K. Vidyakumari, targets vehicles like trucks, buses, and other large commercial transports that operate within and through the district. The primary goal is to electronically limit their maximum speed, thereby reducing the risk of high-speed collisions.
The order is grounded in the authority granted by the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and the Karnataka Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. It specifically invokes section 215 of the MV Act, which empowers the state government to issue such directions for public safety. The administration has observed that accidents often occur due to overspeeding by these larger vehicles, leading to fatal outcomes and significant property damage.
Compliance Deadline and Enforcement
Vehicle owners and operators have been given a clear deadline to comply with this new regulation. The installation of the speed limiting devices must be completed on or before May 31, 2024. This provides a window of several weeks for transport companies and individual owners to retrofit their fleets with the necessary equipment.
Following the deadline, enforcement will be strict. Authorities, including the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and traffic police, will conduct checks. Vehicles found plying without the mandatory speed governor will face legal action and penalties as prescribed under the Motor Vehicles Act. The order serves as a final warning to all concerned parties to adhere to the rule for the safety of all road users.
Expected Impact on Road Safety
The administration expects this measure to bring a substantial reduction in road accidents, especially on highways and busy district roads frequented by heavy vehicles. By capping the top speed, the potential severity of accidents can be minimized. This initiative is part of a broader road safety strategy, which may include other measures in the future.
The directive applies uniformly to all vehicles falling under the specified category, regardless of whether they are registered in Udupi or are entering from other districts or states. This ensures a consistent safety standard is maintained on Udupi's roads. The move has been welcomed by road safety advocates who have long called for technological interventions to prevent speeding.
In conclusion, the Udupi district administration's mandate for speed governors is a proactive step towards creating safer roads. It places the responsibility on vehicle operators to prioritize safety over speed, with a clear compliance timeline and consequences for violations. The success of this rule will depend on effective implementation and cooperation from the transport industry.
