UDUPI: A major accident was narrowly averted on the National Highway 66 stretch near Ambalapady late on Monday night, after alert locals intercepted a gas tanker that was being driven recklessly without headlights. The driver, a native of Maharashtra, was allegedly under the influence of alcohol while operating the hazardous vehicle, placing several road users at grave risk.
Locals intervene to prevent disaster
According to eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred when a motorist travelling on NH-66 noticed a large gas tanker being driven at unusually high speed. The vehicle was not only swerving dangerously but was also moving without headlights, making it nearly invisible to oncoming traffic. Given the nature of the load it was carrying, even a minor collision could have resulted in a catastrophic explosion.
The concerned road user followed the vehicle for some distance, observing the erratic driving pattern. Realising that the situation posed an imminent threat to motorists and residents living along the stretch, he decided to intervene. With the assistance of other locals who had also noticed the tanker’s reckless movement, he managed to stop the vehicle near Ambalapady.
Driver allegedly intoxicated
Once the vehicle halted, residents gathered at the spot and confronted the driver. Witnesses said he appeared heavily intoxicated and was unable to respond coherently to questions. His slurred speech and unsteady movements further confirmed suspicions that he had consumed alcohol prior to driving.
Many residents expressed shock and anger, emphasising that driving a fuel or gas-loaded vehicle requires exceptional caution. The very thought of an inebriated individual driving a tanker on a busy national highway was enough to inflame tempers.
Some locals, agitated by the potential threat to public safety, allegedly assaulted the driver before handing him over to the police. Police officials soon arrived at the location and took the driver into custody for further questioning and medical examination.
Potential risk and fears of a major tragedy
The NH-66 corridor, especially near Ambalapady, is known for brisk night-time vehicular activity. Several residential neighbourhoods, commercial establishments and eateries operate along the stretch. Had the tanker collided with any vehicle or structure, the outcome could have been disastrous.
Experts note that gas tankers require strict adherence to safety protocols, including regulated driving speed, alertness and functional lighting systems. Driving under the influence amplifies the risk exponentially, as reaction times reduce drastically and judgement becomes impaired. Residents who were present at the spot reiterated that the situation could easily have resulted in a mass-casualty event.
Police action and ongoing inquiry
Police sources confirmed that the driver was taken into custody and will undergo medical tests to determine the level of intoxication. Officers also inspected the tanker, verified its documentation and initiated communication with the company responsible for transporting the gas.
Authorities stated that legal action will be taken under relevant sections of the Motor Vehicles Act and the Indian Penal Code, given the severity of the negligence involved. They added that driving a hazardous goods carrier in such a condition is an offence of a serious nature, warranting stringent penalties.
The transport company may also face scrutiny, as regulations require employers to ensure that drivers are medically fit, sober and well-rested before taking charge of highly combustible cargo. Police are expected to summon company representatives for further clarification.
Community calls for stronger checks
The incident has reignited discussions about the need for stricter monitoring of heavy vehicles plying through Udupi district. Several residents urged authorities to introduce more frequent night-time patrolling and random alcohol tests for drivers of hazardous load carriers.
Local road safety activists commented that while enforcement exists on paper, practical vigilance often falls short. They argued that preventing such incidents requires sustained monitoring, coordination with transport firms and stronger punitive actions against violators.
A timely intervention prevents disaster
The swift action of the vigilant road user and locals ensured that a major tragedy was avoided. Their timely intervention prevented what could have been an irreversible disaster on a densely used national highway.
As police continue their investigation, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by irresponsible driving, particularly when hazardous materials are involved. The episode has also highlighted the importance of community alertness, which in this case proved lifesaving.