Night-time travel in Kerala becomes hazardous as vehicles flaunt illegal LED flashlights

Pathanamthitta: The use of LED flashlights in vehicles has become widespread again in Kerala causing difficulties to the drivers during night travels. With the start of the school and college excursion season, the use of LED flashlights is increasing, particularly in tourist buses and travelers, making it extremely difficult for vehicles coming from opposite directions. It is reported that the growing competition to make trips more unique is leading to the use of such lights.

There is also a rising trend of shooting reels featuring the night visuals of vehicles fitted with these lights.

As per the Motor Vehicle Act in the country, vehicles cannot be equipped with such LED flashlights. In May 2023, the division bench of Kerala High Court directed strict action against all government vehicles traveling with illegally fitted LED flashlights. The bench also recommended taking strict measures against similar violations by private vehicle owners.

Avoiding scrutiny
Since these lights can be easily installed and detached from the vehicle, they are often taken off in the wake of inspections. Once the vehicle is back on the road, the lights are reinstalled. The lack of night inspections by the Motor Vehicles Department benefits such violators.

The minimum fine for installing additional lights is ₹250, and if structural modifications are made, it can go up to ₹5,000.

Blinding glare
December and January often see heavy fog during the nights. Combined with rainfall, visibility for drivers is further reduced. In such conditions, vehicles with LED lights speeding in all directions cause added challenges. The blinding glare from these lights distracts drivers, leading to potential accidents.

In the past two weeks, a considerable percentage of road accidents in the state occurred at night.