Transporting people on goods carrier continues in Erode

The practice is largely prevalent in the rural areas of the district

Risky ride:A few persons undertaking a risky travel on an autorickshaw meant for carrying goods in Erode on Saturday. Photo: M. Govarthan

The illegal means of transporting people on goods carriers remains unchecked in most parts of the district.

Though the district has been witnessing a number of accidents involving goods carriers that transport people, the practice prevails and the police are yet to initiate any stern action to curb it.

In February this year, three persons were killed and 24 others received injuries when a van in which they were travelling, skidded off the Burgur ghat road and plunged into a deep ravine near Anthiyur. The van was carrying more than 40 persons, who were returning home after participating in an engagement ceremony held at Kalvarikadu near Burgur, when the accident took place.

Despite the warning issued by the district administration, persons ferrying labourers for farm and construction works often choose to take them on goods carrier as it happens to be a cheaper means of transport.

The practice is largely prevalent in the rural areas of the district.

On Saturday, a goods auto rickshaw was found carrying more than 20 persons near Erode to a party meeting.

Pointing out the dangers of the practice, consumer rights activists here said a majority of the goods carriers were found overloaded while transporting people. They urged the district administration and police to launch an intensive drive to curb the practice.

Police officials said they were continuously educating the drivers of goods carriers on the risks involved in overloading and transporting of people.

Though the drivers of the vehicle were aware of the problem, they continue to take the risk, the officials said.