Thiruvananthapuram: Authorities in the state are preparing to enforce new restrictions on two-wheelers and autorickshaws on six-lane national highways in a bid to reduce accidents, Transport Commissioner Nagaraju Chakilam said. Under the plan, these vehicles will be barred from using the highways and diverted to service roads, except in stretches where service roads have not yet been built. The rules will come into effect once highway construction is completed.

AI cameras to curb speeding

Officials said AI-enabled cameras will be installed along the national highways after construction concludes. The system is intended to monitor speed violations by light motor vehicles, including cars, and reduce the frequency of high-speed crashes.

Bus stops shifted to service roads

Buses will no longer be permitted to halt on the highways and must instead use designated bays on service roads. Existing stops on the main highway will be removed in line with Ministry of Road Transport and Highways norms, which prohibit boarding and alighting directly on national highways.

KSRTC officials expect the upgraded highway network to benefit long-distance operations. The corporation plans to introduce “Minnal” services with limited stops along the highway corridor, aimed at cutting travel time.

Rest facilities to be expanded

Rest infrastructure on the state’s highways remains inadequate, officials noted. On National Highway 66, parking and rest areas for heavy vehicles, including trucks, will be set up roughly every 80 kilometres. However, the lack of available land continues to pose challenges. Authorities said ensuring sufficient rest points is essential to avoid accidents linked to fatigue and highway hypnosis.