In a decisive step to prioritise pedestrian safety, the Kerala Transport Department has launched a stringent crackdown on drivers who violate zebra-crossing rules. Reported by Uma Sudhir, the initiative aims to transform Kerala’s traffic culture by enforcing discipline at pedestrian crossings and reducing accidents across busy urban roads.
The state is witnessing a growing number of incidents where vehicles encroach upon zebra crossings, forcing pedestrians to navigate dangerously close to moving traffic. The new move is designed to change that.
What Triggered the New Action?
Pedestrian safety has been a rising concern in Kerala’s cities, where:
Drivers frequently stop their vehicles over zebra lines
Pedestrians often struggle to cross safely at signals
Road etiquette is widely ignored
Accidents involving walkers have increased
The Transport Department decided it was time for serious enforcement, backed by modern traffic-monitoring technology.
Key Measures Announced by the Transport Department
1. Heavy Fines for Violators
Drivers who stop on or block zebra crossings will now face significantly higher penalties. The fines apply even if the signal is red but the vehicle crosses the stop line.
2. Camera-Based Surveillance
To ensure consistent enforcement, the department is using:
AI-enabled traffic cameras
Automated number plate recognition (ANPR)
Real-time monitoring of busy intersections
This reduces human error and ensures violators are caught even outside peak hours.
3. Issuing E-Challans Automatically
Captured violations will result in automatic e-challans being sent to vehicle owners. The system aims to reduce disputes and streamline penalisation.
4. Awareness Campaign for Motorists
The government is launching awareness sessions, posters, and social media campaigns to teach drivers the importance of stopping before zebra lines.
5. Pedestrian-First Policy Reinforced
Officials reaffirm that pedestrians have the right of way, and vehicles must not obstruct crossings under any circumstances.
Why Zebra-Crossing Violations Are Dangerous
When drivers stop on the crossing lines, pedestrians face severe risks:
Reduced visibility when stepping onto the road
Increased chances of collision
Pressure to walk between vehicles
Stress and confusion at intersections
Kerala’s initiative aims to return zebra crossings to what they are meant for—safe walking zones.
Public Reaction and Support
Many residents and road safety activists have welcomed the move. Some noted that strict enforcement has long been overdue, especially in urban areas like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode.
Parents, elderly citizens, school authorities, and daily walkers say the crackdown will make roads safer for vulnerable groups.
Impact on Kerala’s Traffic Discipline
If implemented effectively, the strict monitoring and penalty system is expected to:
Encourage drivers to maintain road discipline
Reduce pedestrian accidents
Improve traffic flow at intersections
Build a culture of safety and respect for road rules
Officials say this is only the beginning, with more pedestrian-friendly measures planned.
FAQs
1. What is the new rule regarding zebra crossings in Kerala?
Drivers must stop before the zebra line, not on it, even when waiting at signals.
2. What happens if someone blocks a zebra crossing?
They will receive a heavy fine, often through automated e-challan systems.
3. How will violators be caught?
AI-based cameras and ANPR technology will capture images of violations.
4. Does the rule apply to all vehicles?
Yes—cars, bikes, autos, buses, and commercial vehicles.
5. Why is Kerala enforcing this strictly now?
Due to rising pedestrian accidents and growing violations at crossings.
Published on : 28th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit: Content based on reporting by Uma Sudhir