Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government is gearing up to introduce a landmark legislation that will penalize pedestrians for violating road safety rules. This decision comes after a proposal by Transport Commissioner C H Nagaraju to bridge the gaps in the current road safety framework, which primarily targets drivers under the Motor Vehicles Act.
The proposed legislation aims to ensure pedestrians also adhere to road rules, especially in areas equipped with proper safety infrastructure like zebra crossings, footpaths, and pedestrian signals. The government plans to implement this initiative in phases, focusing initially on regions with advanced safety measures such as AI cameras, dividers, and other monitoring tools.
Pedestrians found violating these rules may face fines for actions such as:
- Crossing roads without using designated zebra crossings where available.
- Jumping over medians or barricades in restricted zones.
- Ignoring red pedestrian signals while crossing roads.
- Walking on roads instead of using footpaths.
This measure is part of a broader effort to improve road safety and reduce accidents caused by negligence from all road users, including pedestrians. By holding pedestrians accountable, the government aims to foster a culture of responsibility and adherence to road safety norms. By implementing this legislation, the Kerala government seeks to create a safer and more organized road environment. It emphasizes that road safety is a collective responsibility, not just the duty of drivers but also pedestrians. The move is expected to significantly reduce road accidents and ensure that the infrastructure put in place for pedestrian safety is utilized effectively. Public awareness campaigns and phased implementation will help people adapt to these new rules, ultimately fostering a culture of discipline and mutual respect on the roads.
