The driver of the car that was involved in an accident at Karukutty junction near Angamaly here on Thursday was arrested by the police and charged with negligent driving. Twenty-two people, including 18 children, were injured in the accident.
The Angamaly police arrested Shibu, 38, of Manjummal, Eloor. The Hyundai Accent car he drove at the time of the accident was owned by his brother. Police said Shibu did not have a valid licence and the car was not insured. The driver of the vehicle had run away from the spot immediately after the accident. “He was produced before the Aluva Judicial First Class Magistrate. Though the offence he was charged with is bailable, we informed the court of the seriousness of the accident. Eighteen children were injured, two of them gravely,” said Angamaly circle inspector D. Radhakrishna Pillai.
Local residents said the spot had witnessed several accidents previously and had demanded that the bus stop be shifted to the service road so that those waiting for the bus need to stand by the highway. The circle inspector said such a move could be implemented only with the cooperation of the National Highways Authority.
There has also been a demand to install a traffic signal at the Karukutty junction, near which the accident took place. “There is a signal post at the spot. A person has come forward to install the traffic lights free of cost. A proposal in this regard was sent to the municipality three weeks ago and they have not responded yet,” Mr. Pillai said.
Angamaly zone chairman of Lions Club Paulson P.V. said the construction of reserve lanes meant for vehicles waiting to take U-turn could prevent accidents. “This can be done by redesigning junctions, most of which are wider than 45 metres. Free space is available now at many places, but is used for parking vehicles,” he said.
