SURAT - In the wake of a tragic accident on the BRTS route in Kapodra, Surat, where a speeding Swift car driver struck down three bikers and two pedestrians, Kumar Kanani, the BJP MLA representing the Varachha Kapodra area, has raised questions about the timing of police traffic enforcement.
Drug-fueled recklessness on the city's roads has seen a marked rise. Many incidents involve drivers seemingly oblivious to the law, leading to the loss of innocent lives. Mr. Kanani noted the prevalent police practice of fining commoners and the economically disadvantaged during daylight hours for minor traffic infractions like driving without a license, helmet, or number plate. He contrasted this with the grave accidents occurring during the night, which often involve intoxicated drivers.
Highlighting the reduced likelihood of such incidents during the day due to the volume of traffic, Kanani stressed that the police should prioritize nighttime operations. He stated, "No one ventures out driving post-alcohol consumption during the day. Regular citizens, often from poorer backgrounds, bear the brunt of such daytime operations."
Kanani's concerns arise from a pattern he's observed: many young drivers, devoid of clear direction in life, indulge in alcohol and then recklessly take to the streets in the dead of night. He firmly believes enforcement should continue well into the late hours to curtail this trend. "Surat is equipped with an extensive CCTV network and a dedicated control room. Those driving under the influence late at night should be under surveillance," the MLA added.
Kanani confirmed that actions, including FIRs and arrests, have been initiated regarding the latest accident and emphasized that while actions post-accidents in areas like Ahmedabad have seen a step-up, the overall strategy needs reevaluation. He has resolved to bring this issue to the attention of the Home Minister and Chief Minister.
