Kerala CM blames UDF govt for rising road accident toll

Kerala's former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday alleged that the current UDF government has compromised on road safety, leading to a surge in traffic accidents across the state. Vijayan claimed that systematic measures to curb accidents and enforce traffic discipline, which were put in place during his administration, have been undermined by the present dispensation.

The veteran communist leader pointed out that the previous LDF government had rolled out robust initiatives aimed at reducing road fatalities and promoting disciplined traffic practices. Vijayan noted that these programmes had faced criticism and opposition from UDF members while they were in opposition.

According to Vijayan, the dismantling of these road safety frameworks has directly contributed to the recent spike in accidents reported across Kerala. He argued that reversing established safety protocols has created gaps in traffic management and enforcement.

The remarks come amid growing public concern over road safety in the state, with traffic incidents claiming numerous lives in recent months. The debate reflects broader differences between the LDF and UDF administrations on governance priorities and policy continuity.