Thiruvananthapuram: In the wake of the back to back accidents caused by speeding tipper lorries running for the Vizhinjam Port construction purposes, District Collector Geromic George declared that the inspection processes will be strengthened to avoid occurrence of such tragic events and announced some guidelines related to the security arrangements, prepared jointly by the police and the district administration. . 

He was speaking to the media after an all-party meeting held following the death of BDS student Ananthu, involving a tipper carrying load for Vizhinjam Port construction. 

Decisions made by the authorities

  • Tippers will not be allowed to run on public roads between 8 am to 10 am
  • Special squads under the Motor Vehicles Department will be assigned to inspect overloads 
  • Only weight as per the existing rule will be allowed to be transported 
  • Inspections will be done at loading as well as unloading points 
  • The port authorities will be directed not to pay the contractor if the tippers run with overloads  
  • The police and the MVD will conduct fitness checks of the vehicles. For this, Adani Port Company will be directed to submit the list of tippers running in connection with port construction.
  • The eligibility of tipper drivers will be checked, and they will be given required training   

The Collector also said that a discussion will be held with the Adani Group to decide on the measures to be taken by them regarding this.

On the compensation for the family of Ananthu, the Collector said the government will take a final decision after holding discussions. 

Meanwhile, political party representatives made suggestions regarding the compensation amount. MLA M Vincent has stated that tipper transportation will not be allowed unless and until a decision is made regarding the compensation amount. 

Recommendations regarding the same will be sent to the government, the collector added.