MVD increases highway patrols in Kerala.

MVD steps up highway patrols as aquaplaning accidents rise in Kerala Highway safety patrols have been increased across Kerala’s national highway stretches, following a spate of fatal accidents caused by aquaplaning during the ongoing monsoon season. Aquaplaning occurs when a vehicle loses contact with the road surface due to water accumulating on the surface, resulting in reduced traction and increased stopping distances. Despite the risks, some motorists have been ignoring warnings to exercise caution on wet roads..

The Kerala government has been actively involved in promoting road safety and has been running public awareness campaigns to educate drivers about the dangers of aquaplaning. Motorists are being advised to reduce their speed, keep it below 60 kmph on wet roads or where water has collected. Drivers are also being encouraged to increase their following distance, avoid hard braking, and use low gear while driving on uphill gradients..

Experts say that while driving through standing water is inevitable, motorists can take steps to minimize the risk of aquaplaning. This includes slowing down before entering a flooded area and accelerating gradually once the vehicle has safely passed through it. Furthermore, drivers should avoid driving through areas with a lot of water accumulation and instead take alternative routes..

The Kerala Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) has also initiated measures to identify and mark high-risk areas on the national highways. Engineers and technical personnel have been deployed to mark sections of the highways where water tends to collect. This is done to alert motorists to the potential risks and encourage them to exercise caution..

The recent rise in aquaplaning accidents has been attributed to the prolonged monsoon season and the increasing number of motor vehicles on the roads. Heavy rainfall has caused water to accumulate on the highways, creating ideal conditions for aquaplaning. Despite the risks, many motorists have been ignoring warnings and continue to drive at high speeds, resulting in tragic consequences..

The Kerala government has also been conducting regular checks on vehicles to ensure they are in roadworthy condition. This includes checking the condition of tires, brakes, and suspension systems. Motorists are also being encouraged to get their vehicles serviced regularly to minimize the risk of mechanical failures..

In addition, the MVD has also launched a mobile app to report incidents of aquaplaning or any other highway hazards. Motorists can use the app to alert the authorities about any road hazards, enabling them to take prompt action to address the issue. The initiative aims to promote transparency and accountability in road safety efforts..

Experts believe that the recent spate of aquaplaning accidents is a wake-up call for motorists to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines. They stress that road safety is a collective responsibility and motorists must be aware of their surroundings and adjust their behavior according to the road conditions. The Kerala government has also been working with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) to develop advanced technology solutions to improve road safety..

IIT researchers are collaborating with the state government to develop artificial intelligence-based systems that can detect road hazards and alert motorists in real-time. Meanwhile, the MVD has also been conducting workshops and training programs for highway patrols and other enforcement officials to educate them on the best practices for dealing with aquaplaning accidents. The initiative aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of highway patrols to respond effectively to such incidents..

Despite the efforts of the Kerala government and the MVD, the number of aquaplaning accidents continues to rise. Motorists must take the initiative to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines to prevent such incidents from occurring. The state government has assured that it will take all necessary measures to improve road safety and protect the lives of innocent motorists..

The Kerala government has requested assistance from the Centre to upgrade the drainage systems on the national highways. This includes installing new culverts, stormwater drains, and other infrastructure to improve water flow and reduce the risk of aquaplaning. The Centre has assured the Kerala government of its assistance in upgrading the drainage systems..

The initiative aims to improve road safety and reduce the risk of accidents. The Centre has also assured that it will provide necessary financial and technical support to the Kerala government to undertake the upgrades. The MVD has also issued an advisory to motorists to drive carefully on highways and follow lane discipline..

Motorists are being advised to avoid using mobile phones while driving and to drive at safe speeds. The MVD has also warned motorists against overloading their vehicles, as this can increase the risk of accidents. In the meantime, motorists are being advised to plan their journeys carefully and avoid driving through areas where water has accumulated..

Motorists should also keep their vehicles in good working condition to minimize the risk of mechanical failures..