Police step up drive against traffic rule violations in Kozhikode city

Responding to public complaints about reckless driving and violations of road safety rules, the police have intensified checks to ease congestion and ensure smooth vehicular movement across Kozhikode city. As part of a special enforcement drive conducted on November 6 and 7, action was taken against motorists found obstructing the designated ‘Free Left’ lanes at key intersections.

According to official sources, fines were imposed on 207 vehicle owners for blocking the Free Left lane, while warning notices were issued to 75 motorists. Several private bus drivers were also caught during the special drive, they said.

During the crackdown, the police also booked 34 individuals for drunk driving and 13 for reckless driving. Action was initiated against 104 vehicles found parked illegally along the highways, besides 665 other general traffic violations.

A total of 26 vehicles were impounded, nine persons were arrested, and six cases were registered against minors caught driving. District Police Chief (Kozhikode city) A.P. Shoukathali said parking or halting vehicles in the free left lane, which is reserved exclusively for left-turning traffic at junctions, would not be tolerated.

He warned that strict legal measures, including heavy penalties, would be enforced against offenders, adding that the special enforcement drives would continue in the coming days. The police have also launched a dedicated awareness campaign focusing on free left and lane discipline to mitigate traffic snarls and prevent accidents.

Newly enrolled traffic wardens would also join the campaign to improve public awareness. To encourage public participation, the police have urged citizens to report traffic violations by sharing photographs and video clips via WhatsApp at the dedicated helpline number 9747001099.