Kerala deploys five squads to improve highway safety in Ernakulam

Kerala's transport and highways authorities have announced the deployment of five enforcement squads across Ernakulam district to enhance road safety on national highways and tackle infrastructure hazards. The teams will focus on removing illegal encroachments and unauthorised vehicle parking that pose risks to commuters.

The enforcement drive comes in response to a tragic accident in Thrissur district in which a multi-utility vehicle collided with a stationary lorry, resulting in the deaths of eight students from Tamil Nadu. Preliminary investigations suggested that illegal parking and poor road conditions contributed to the incident.

Authorities have outlined a time-bound action plan to systematically clear obstructions on highways within the district. The initiative aims to eliminate factors that compromise driver visibility and vehicle manoeuvrability, particularly on high-speed stretches where accidents prove most fatal.

The five squads will coordinate with local police and municipal authorities to ensure sustained compliance with traffic regulations. Officials indicated that emphasis will be placed on locations with frequent congestion and high accident rates.