Reckless, wayward and life-threatening: Slew of complaints against buses plying on the Kottayam–Ernakulam route

Thalayolaparambu: Private buses plying on the Kottayam–Ernakulam route are once again under the scanner, with several complaints being filed against them for overspeeding, misbehaving with passengers, and threatening other motorists. Despite several complaints, supported by videos and photographs, being lodged at police stations, both the police and the Motor Vehicles Department are allegedly failing to take action.

The latest incident was reported by K.S. Sachin, a member of the Velloor panchayat, who lodged a complaint with the Thalayolaparambu police. On Thursday morning around 7.30 am, near the Thalayolaparambu market junction, Sachin was riding his bike along the left side of the road when a private bus approached recklessly from the wrong side. Spotting the bus, he stopped his bike, but the driver halted the bus near him and allegedly raised threats. Police confirmed that a case would be registered based on his complaint. Sachin stated that he had also submitted complaints to the Chief Minister, the Transport Minister, and the Transport Commissioner.

Speeding a routine menace

Local residents say reckless driving by private buses has become routine on this stretch. Speed governors are reportedly installed only during annual inspections and afterwards they will be removed. The buses, often racing one another, overtake vehicles dangerously, even when cars or other small vehicles approach from the opposite direction. Motorists are frequently forced to pull over to the roadside to avoid collisions. When confronted, bus staff allegedly respond with verbal abuse and threats.

Several accidents have already been reported on this route; In July 2024, a bus lost control while speeding near Vettikkattumukku Gurumandiram junction in Thalayolaparambu, overturning and injuring 41 passengers. Following the incident, the police and Motor Vehicles Department tightened inspections temporarily, and reckless driving subsided. However, things seem to have turned wayward yet again.