A concerning trend has emerged in Guwahati, where goods-carrying vehicles, primarily intended for transporting goods and cargo, are being misused to transport passengers, particularly construction site workers.
This violation of the Motor Vehicles Act (MV Act) Section 177 is not only illegal but also poses a severe safety hazard, with workers, including men, women, and even minors, often standing precariously in the empty spaces of these vehicles.
Under Section 177 of the MV Act, such violations are punishable offences. However, the lax enforcement by the police and the preoccupation of the District Transport Office's (DTO) enforcement department with other commitments, such as revenue collection, have created an environment where these violations go unchecked.
This misuse of goods-carrying vehicles as makeshift passenger transports increases the likelihood of accidents, putting the lives of workers at considerable risk.
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With workers standing in open spaces on these vehicles, the potential for accidents resulting in severe injuries or fatalities is alarmingly high.
Despite the inherent dangers and the clear violation of the law, law enforcement agencies, including the police, seem to be turning a blind eye to this issue.
The lack of vigilance and enforcement increases the risk faced by these workers daily.
The enforcement department of the DTO, responsible for ensuring compliance with traffic regulations, appears to be overwhelmed with other commitments, leading to a failure to implement checks and balances against these violations. This not only compromises the safety of workers but also undermines the rule of law.
Concerned citizens and worker advocacy groups are urging both the police and the DTO to prioritise the safety of workers by cracking down on these illegal practices. They emphasise the need for strict enforcement of the MV Act and increased vigilance to prevent further accidents and loss of lives.
The escalating issue demands immediate attention from authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of those who contribute significantly to the city's development.
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While speaking to GPlus, an official from DTO said, "It is indeed a punishable offence, we are vigilant about any such incidents on highways. Moreover, the department is often occupied with other safety standards for the public. The police should too play an equal part to prevent such a nuisance."
The rampant misuse of goods-carrying vehicles as passenger transports has sparked growing concern among local residents and commuters. Witnesses to these dangerous practices are increasingly voicing their worries, expressing frustration over the apparent disregard for public safety on the city's roads. The lack of visible action from authorities has only fuelled public outcry, with many residents calling for swift and decisive measures to address the issue.
When a city traffic official was asked about the same he replied, "We do notice vehicles carrying workers to their sites. But, we're bound to let it pass by as they are backed up by some big shot. Even if we stop the driver, eventually they get easy passage after a phone call."
Beyond the legal and safety implications, the exploitation of goods-carrying vehicles places an undue burden on construction workers who are already vulnerable to various occupational hazards.
A resident of Hatigaon expressed, "The authority should keep an eye on such practices. I saw a woman carrying an infant stacked with other workers. What happens if there is an unfortunate accident? The authority should prohibit and regulate better rules."
The long hours and demanding nature of their work, coupled with the perilous commute, create a precarious situation for these workers. This highlights the broader issue of workers' rights and the need for comprehensive measures to ensure their well-being both on and off the construction site.