The tragic incident in Tamil Nadu, where five women were mowed down by a speeding car driven by BTech students on a joyride, underscores the urgent need for stricter laws and enforcement to curb reckless driving by young drivers. This heartbreaking event is not an isolated case but part of a disturbing trend of young, inexperienced drivers engaging in dangerous joyrides, often with fatal consequences. It is high time that we address this issue with the seriousness it deserves to prevent further loss of innocent lives.
The current legal framework, while comprehensive, lacks the stringent measures needed to deter young drivers from engaging in reckless behaviour. The Motor Vehicles Act, of 1988, and its subsequent amendments provide penalties for underage and reckless driving, but these measures are often insufficient to curb the menace. The recent amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act, which include hefty fines and imprisonment for guardians of underage drivers, are a step in the right direction. However, more needs to be done to ensure that these laws are effectively enforced and that the penalties are severe enough to act as a deterrent.
One of the primary reasons for the prevalence of joyrides among young drivers is the lack of awareness and education about the dangers of reckless driving. Many young drivers view driving as a thrill-seeking activity rather than a serious responsibility. This mindset needs to be changed through comprehensive driver education programs that emphasize the importance of road safety and the potential consequences of reckless driving. Schools and colleges should incorporate road safety education into their curricula, and parents must play a proactive role in instilling responsible driving habits in their children.
In addition to education, there is a need for stricter enforcement of existing laws. Traffic police must be empowered and equipped to conduct regular checks and crack down on underage and reckless driving. The use of technology, such as speed cameras and automated traffic enforcement systems, can help in identifying and penalizing offenders. Moreover, there should be a zero-tolerance policy for violations, with immediate and severe penalties for those caught engaging in joyrides.
Another critical aspect is the role of parents and guardians. The new RTO rules that hold parents accountable for allowing their underage children to drive are a welcome move. However, parents must also take responsibility for monitoring their children’s driving behaviour and ensuring that they adhere to traffic laws. This includes setting clear rules about the use of family vehicles and not allowing their children to drive without proper supervision and a valid license.
Furthermore, there should be a focus on creating safe recreational spaces for young people. Often, the lack of safe and engaging recreational activities leads young people to seek thrills on the roads. By providing alternative avenues for recreation, such as sports facilities, adventure parks, and community centres, we can reduce the temptation for young drivers to engage in dangerous joyrides.