Marayoor: Over-speeding by jeeps in the Marayur–Kanthallur region, a major tourist destination in Idukki, has raised serious concerns over the safety of both travellers and the local residents. Locals warn that unless strict action is taken, the area could soon witness more accidents.

Earlier, a jeep lost control during a reckless race near Marayoor Government High School and rammed into a tree. The tourists onboard had a narrow escape, as the vehicle missed plunging into a gorge. A few days earlier, another tourist jeep lost control at Keezhanthoor point and toppled into a 50-foot-deep slope. In recent weeks, several such accidents have been reported during leisure rides offered to tourists.

The region has over 300 jeeps engaged in tourist rides. While many drivers earn their livelihood by operating responsibly, a few others are putting lives at risk through over-speeding and careless driving. Local residents have voiced strong objections to these dangerous joyrides.

With tourist inflow rising in recent times, the local economy, comprising resorts, homestays, shops and jeep operators, etc., depends heavily on this steady stream of visitors to the area. But residents fear that if jeep rides turn unsafe, tourism will eventually decline. They are urging authorities to step in and put an end to such reckless driving once and for all.

Reckless driving puts schoolchildren at risk
Many of these speed stunts by tourist jeeps are taking place on the stretch near Marayoor Government High School, a road frequently used by schoolchildren walking to classes or waiting for buses. The area also has several sharp curves, making over-speeding even more dangerous.

Taking a serious note of the situation, the school authorities have lodged complaints with the Marayoor Panchayat, the local police station and the MLA, demanding urgent measures to regulate reckless jeep rides and ensure safety.