Alarmed by the deaths of over 800 pedestrians on state roads this year, Kerala&rsquo;s Motor Vehicles Department has announced tough measures against drivers who violate pedestrian safety rules, particularly at zebra crossings. Nearly half of the victims were senior citizens, highlighting the growing threat to vulnerable road users.
Officials observed widespread disregard for pedestrian rights, with many motorists failing to slow down at crossings. In several areas, two-wheelers and cars are frequently parked on zebra crossings or footpaths, rendering them unusable and putting pedestrians at serious risk.
Traffic regulations clearly mandate that drivers must reduce speed and stop at least three metres before a zebra crossing when a pedestrian is waiting. However, authorities noted that many drivers instead speed through, forcing pedestrians to rush or hesitate, often with fatal outcomes.
Acting on directions from the Kerala High Court, the department has authorised officers to cancel the driving licences of motorists who fail to yield to pedestrians at crossings. Violators will also face legal action under the Motor Vehicles Act, including a fine of Rs 2,000.
Drivers who park or stop vehicles on zebra crossings will face penalties from both traffic police and transport authorities. The department has urged citizens to report violations and stressed that pedestrian safety depends on public awareness, discipline, and shared responsibility. [Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]

Kerala to Cancel Licences for Crossing Violations

Move follows over 800 pedestrian deaths on Kerala roads this year

Kerala to Cancel Licences for Crossing Violations

Move follows over 800 pedestrian deaths on Kerala roads this year

November 27, 2025 | 20:13 IST