THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Transport Minister K. B. Ganesh Kumar revealed that the driver and cleaner of the lorry involved in the tragic accident at Nattika, Thrissur, were under the influence of alcohol.
The incident occurred early Tuesday morning when the lorry, carrying timber from Kannur, ran over people sleeping on the roadside. Five individuals lost their lives, and 11 others sustained injuries.
Investigations confirmed that the cleaner, who was at the wheel during the accident, lacked a valid driving licence. “There will not be any compromise in the action against the driver and the cleaner who tried to flee from the accident site. The Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) has suspended the licence and registration. The vehicle registration will be cancelled,” said the Minister.
The accident unfolded when the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to hit the divider on the National Highway before veering off the road.
In response to the tragedy, the Minister announced plans to intensify night patrolling to curb traffic violations. He expressed concern over the frequent overspeeding and lane indiscipline by drivers at night.
“The cooperation of the police will be sought to prevent people from sleeping on the pavement at night,” he added.
The Minister also lamented the lack of funds necessary for effective enforcement activities. “The department is determined to take stringent action to prevent such incidents in the future,” he asserted.