Demand strict licensing, deterrent measures to prevent tipper accidents

The site of an accident where a dump truck crashed into a bus stand at Nileswaram in Kottarakkara, Kollam recently. | Photo Credit: Photo File

Repeated fatal accidents involving overloaded dumpers in Kerala have re-emphasized the need to curb overloading, ensure eligibility of goods transporters and tighten the licensing process for heavy vehicle drivers, say various stakeholders.

A few days ago, three people were killed in Kottarakkara’s Nileshwaram when an overtaking tipper rammed into a bus stand and a motorcycle. The vehicle was later found to have flat rear tires and was carrying more than twice the permissible weight. It was also revealed that the driver who caused the accident was inexperienced and did not have a license for a heavy vehicle.

“This is a clear case of driving incompetence and lack of experience,” said Sibi Mathai, who has conducted research in road safety and behavioral psychology. “The licensing system in India allows anyone who gets a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) license by driving an 800 cc car to drive a tipper truck with a load capacity of 7.5 tonnes or more. It is high time that the Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) insisted that drivers of school buses and trucks should have at least three years of experience in driving such vehicles, in addition to practical training in commercial vehicles. They should be certified by authorized workshops, how it’s done in Europe,” he said.

He added that vehicles older than 15 years should not be allowed to operate as school buses or goods carriers. Older vehicles often have serious problems with brake systems, suspension and chassis, compounded by worn tires, he said.

KA Anoop, president of the All Kerala Truck Owners’ Association, attributing the recurring tipper accidents to the “unholy nexus” between dumpers and trucks and enforcement officers, expressed dismay at the failure of MVD and police officials to take deterrent measures such as suspending driving licenses and allowing tippers found transporting overloaded trucks and other goods.

“Kerala High Court in 2019 ordered action against such vehicles. As the MVD and police did little, the Association filed a contempt petition. None of the more than a dozen high court orders that followed were implemented. As a result, dangerously overloaded goods carriers continue to ply freely, even on roads near RTO offices and District Superintendents of Police offices,” said Mr. Anoop.

Transport Commissioner Nagaraju C said that efforts are being made to curb such violations. “Most of the MVD’s 950 uniformed enforcement personnel are involved in issuing driving licenses and vehicle fitness certificates. Their strength needs to be increased to effectively enforce the rules, especially as the number of vehicles registered in Kerala is expected to cross two billion in 2027. Sensor-based portable scales are also needed to prevent congestion,” he said.

Published – 28 Jun 2026 20:53 IST