Mangaluru: In a decisive step to rein in traffic violations, Mangaluru city police have announced strict action against Kerala-registered vehicles breaking traffic rules—particularly those involved in dangerous and speeding practices.
Authorities have noted a surge in traffic offences by vehicles bearing Kerala plates, with an estimated 90% linked to students, mostly on two-wheelers. These students, enrolled in colleges across the city and outskirts, are increasingly blamed for reckless riding that endangers public safety.
Despite prior attempts to curb this behaviour through notices issued based on CCTV footage, compliance levels remain poor. As a result, Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy has directed officers to impound such vehicles on the spot upon violation, releasing them only after fines are cleared.
Reddy affirmed that legal provisions support this move. He also mentioned recent discussions with the Kasargod SP, who backed the initiative. Police units are currently organizing traffic awareness campaigns in educational institutions. However, continued disregard for rules will now lead to vehicle seizure, the commissioner warned.
Concerned citizens have called on college administrations to take ownership of their students’ conduct. There is growing demand for colleges to educate non-local students, especially those from Kerala, about local traffic laws and enforce strict disciplinary actions for repeated violations.
Common offences include riding without helmets, triple riding, wrong-side driving, speeding, use of dark car tints, and intimidating local residents. With community complaints mounting, Mangaluru police are stepping up enforcement to restore road discipline.