Sri Vijaya Puram, July 23: Transport Department has appealed to all vehicle owners, operators, and drivers to refrain from plying overloaded vehicles on public roads. Overloading of vehicles is a serious violation of the law and poses a significant threat to road safety. It increases the risk of accidents, causes excessive wear and tear to roads and bridges, reduces vehicle stability and braking efficiency, and endangers the lives of passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. All vehicle owners are requested to ensure that their vehicles operate strictly within the permissible gross vehicle weight and carrying capacity as prescribed under the Motor Vehicles Act and the rules made there under. Vehicle owners should also educate their drivers about the dangers and legal consequences of overloading.
Transport Department has intensified enforcement drives across the jurisdiction. During the enforcement drive conducted by Transport Department during last one week 19 vehicles were found plying in overloaded condition and these vehicles were fined for a total amount of Rs. 4,89,500/-. Vehicles found carrying loads beyond the prescribed limits will be liable for penalties and other legal action as per the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. As per the provisions of section 194. (1) contravention of the provisions of section 113 or section 114 or section 115 shall be liable for a penalty of Rs. 20,000/- and an additional penalty of Rs.2000/- per tonne of excess load. 194. (1A) provides for a penalty of Rs. 20,000/- for any load or any part thereof or anything that extends laterally beyond the side of the body or to the front or to the rear or in height beyond the permissible limit. Section 194(2) provides for penalty of Rs. 40,000/- for refusal by any driver to stop and submit his vehicle to weighing after being directed to do so. The cooperation of all vehicle owners, transport operators, and the general public is solicited in promoting safe, responsible, and lawful transportation. By avoiding overloading, we can collectively contribute to safer roads, protect public infrastructure, and save lives.