A recent viral video on social media depicts an autorickshaw navigating a footbridge to escape a traffic jam. This incident unfolded in the Hamdard Nagar area, situated in the southern part of the national capital.
The viral video showcases an autorickshaw driver ascending the stairs of a foot overbridge. Pedestrians are already on the footbridge, crossing it. The autorickshaw driver accelerates vigorously to ensure sufficient momentum to tackle the steep staircase.
The video also illustrates heavy traffic in the region, with roads nearly congested. The driver, identified as Munna, aged 25, was apprehended by local police, along with his accomplice, Amit. Investigation revealed that both individuals are residents of Sangam Vihar in Delhi and were en route home when they encountered the traffic jam.
While such offences are very common across the country, one should know that police can book them based on video evidence. The police of metro cities are already using a wide network of CCTV camera to keep an eye on such offences even though there is no on-ground personnel present.
Such actions are unlawful
It is a common sight in many metropolitan cities to witness autorickshaw drivers and motorcyclists encroaching upon pedestrian walkways to evade traffic congestion. Using vehicles in areas other than designated spaces such as foot overbridges and pedestrian walkways is prohibited in India. Unfortunately, law enforcement is often lacking when it comes to addressing these transgressions.
While police have started issuing digital traffic citations based on video evidence, this alone is insufficient to deter individuals who flout regulations to gain an advantage.
In the past, there have been instances involving politicians and others breaking the law by driving their vehicles directly onto railway station platforms to avoid missing trains. Many Indians have a low regard for traffic regulations, and a significant portion of motorists do not adhere to these rules correctly. Such rule violators exacerbate traffic congestion, further clogging roadways. A study conducted some time ago revealed that frequent lane changes in heavy traffic conditions actually worsen traffic jams and slow down vehicle movement.
India has one of the highest rates of fatal road accidents globally. With high-speed roads becoming increasingly common, it is essential to educate new drivers from a young age. Schools and educational centers should incorporate fundamental road safety into their curricula.
