The Kerala High Court has reprimanded the Motor Vehicles Department for taking insufficient disciplinary measures against an illegally altered vehicle used in flood relief efforts, directing transport officials and police to rigorously enforce state regulations on unauthorized vehicle modifications.
A division bench consisting of Justice Anil K Narendran and Justice Muralee Krishna S issued the directions on August 21 during a hearing on road safety and illegal alterations. The court scrutinised a report from the Transport Commissioner showing that the department’s enforcement wing levied a fine of just Rs 5,000 on an SUV fitted with six unauthorized extra lights, despite past judicial orders prohibiting such fittings.
The incident drew public attention after two Motor Vehicles Department officials based in Adoor were suspended for issuing a citation to the private SUV for lacking a pollution certificate and carrying illegal alterations while it was returning from flood rescue operations in Aranmula earlier this month.
Pending Fines and Safety Concerns
The court noted that an e-challan issued against the same SUV on March 11, 2024, had never been resolved. Despite the outstanding violation, the vehicle was permitted back onto public roads with prohibited lighting and modifications that endanger other motorists.
Furthermore, the bench highlighted widespread enforcement lapses regarding vehicles fitted with wide wheels that protrude beyond the bodywork or protective covers. Judges stated that police and transport officers routinely fail to stop these vehicles, which put two-wheeler riders, cyclists, and pedestrians at risk by splashing water and mud.
Further Report Requested
Appearing for the state, the special government pleader requested additional time to file an updated report from the Transport Commissioner. Granting the request, the court ordered enforcement agencies to ensure full compliance with existing vehicle modification directives before adjourning the matter until September 7.
