The Kerala High Court has issued orders for action to be taken against vloggers and vehicle owners who promote modified vehicles, stating that they pose a potential threat to road safety. The court specifically highlighted the use of buses with modified LED lights as a concerning issue. The division bench of the court has directed the state police to take stringent action against these vehicles and their owners and drivers.
The court emphasized the importance of complying with safety standards in the Automotive Industry Standard (AIS)-008. It also highlighted the dangers of vehicles fitted with after-market multi-coloured LED/laser/neon lights that can distract and potentially harm other road users. The court called for appropriate proceedings to be initiated against both vehicle owners and drivers, as well as vloggers who promote the use of such vehicles through platforms like YouTube and other online media.
Several YouTube channels, including AJ Tourist Bus Lover, Nazru Vlogger, Najeeb Zainul, and Moto Vlogger, have been promoting the use of modified vehicles, disregarding the court’s previous directions. The court deemed this a serious offense and stated that a fine of Rs 5,000 should be imposed for every unauthorized alteration made to a vehicle, in addition to existing penalties.
The court’s action comes in response to a suo motu case, which was initiated based on a report regarding the functioning of the safe zone project at Sabarimala. This area has experienced a high number of accidents and breakdowns in recent months. The Motor Vehicle Department of Kerala is expected to play a crucial role in enforcing these directives, especially when it comes to vehicles brought into India through Carnet. The department has advanced devices to check for safety standards compliance, such as lux meters and sound meters, as well as AI cameras to monitor traffic violations.
It remains to be seen how the Motor Vehicle Department will respond to the court’s orders and ensure road safety by cracking down on modified vehicles. With the increasing popularity of vlogging and online promotion, it is crucial to take strict action against those who encourage the use of modified vehicles that pose a risk to the safety of other road users. The court’s directives and the subsequent enforcement efforts by the authorities are aimed at safeguarding the lives of individuals on the road.
