Kerala MVD to cancel licences of drivers violating zebra-crossing rules

Thiruvananthapuram: With Kerala recording over 800 pedestrian deaths this year, the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) has launched a stringent enforcement drive targeting motorists who flout pedestrian-safety rules, particularly at zebra crossings.

Nearly half of the victims were senior citizens, exposing the severity of unsafe driving practices in the state. According to the MVD, both two-wheeler and four-wheeler drivers frequently ignore pedestrian right-of-way, often speeding past zebra crossings instead of slowing down as required by law. Many are also found parking directly on crossings or blocking footpaths, creating dangerous conditions for walkers.

As per the law, motorists must slow down and stop at least three metres before a zebra crossing if a pedestrian is waiting. 

“Courtesy to pedestrians and the ability to anticipate their movement is a key criterion to retain a driving licence,” the MVD release stated.

Citing a Kerala High Court directive, the MVD has now empowered enforcement officers to cancel the driving licences of any motorist who disregards pedestrian rights at zebra crossings. The department stressed that respecting pedestrians and anticipating their movement is essential for retaining a licence.

Along with licence cancellation, offenders will face prosecution under Section 184 of the Motor Vehicles Act, carrying a penalty of ₹2,000. Those who halt or park on zebra crossings will be penalised by both the police and the MVD.

Urging the public to report violations, the department emphasised that protecting pedestrians is not only a legal mandate but a shared civic responsibility.