The death of a 29-year-old businessman in Hulimavu after being run over by a tractor has spotlighted the unsafe commercial use of agricultural vehicles on city roads.

The incident reportedly occurred during a temple procession earlier this month and has triggered renewed concern over the growing presence of tractors being used for commercial transport in residential and urban areas.

Tractors increasingly used for city work

Officials say tractors, originally meant for farm use, are now widely deployed to carry construction debris, landfill waste and materials through narrow layouts where larger lorries cannot easily enter.

The issue is said to be more severe in rapidly developing areas of north and east Bengaluru, where construction and landfilling activity remain high.

Driver checks often ignored

Some tractor owners admitted that background verification, licence checks and insurance validation are often neglected while hiring drivers.

Authorities said many drivers are migrant labourers employed for low wages, with deadlines often taking priority over safety compliance.

Residents fear night-time menace

People living in outskirts such as Sarjapur and Whitefield have complained that tractors speed through roads after late-night traffic restrictions are lifted.

Residents allege many vehicles operate without reflectors, while trailers sway dangerously and create serious risks for motorists and pedestrians.

Tax loophole under scanner

Transport officials said some owners allegedly register tractors under the agricultural category to avail tax benefits and white-board non-transport status, despite using them commercially.

This misuse may also complicate accident compensation, as tractors and trailers can carry separate insurance liabilities.

Enforcement steps planned

Traffic police officials said a complete ban may not be practical in older layouts with narrow roads, where tractors remain useful.

However, night patrolling is being intensified and coordination with transport authorities has begun to cancel permits of repeat violators.