Snazzy headlights under scanner

HYDERABAD: Riding on a motorcycle installed with high-beam headlights or fancy lights on city streets might land one in hot water. The traffic police and Transport department officials are set to crack the whip on motorists, who use high-beam headlights and fancy lights on their two-wheelers and four-wheelers. With numerous complaints pouring in, traffic police and transport officials have decided to initiate a special drive during nights. Reportedly, a number of road accidents take place between 10 p.m and 4 a.m, with many caused by people who drive around in cars and two-wheelers with high-intensity lights. Traffic officials explained that high-beam headlights end up blinding riders approaching from the opposite direction and force them to either slow down or slam brakes suddenly, which lead to accidents.GVG Ashok Kumar, deputy commissioner of police (Traffic) told Express that riding on motorcycles or cars with high-beam or fancy headlights is dangerous and one of the main causes of accidents during nights. “Using high-intensity headlights or fancy lights are against traffic rules and regulations. We will initiate stern action against violators found riding vehicles with high-beam headlights,” he added. Kumar also said they have identified a few other reasons for road mishaps during nights- lack of proper reflectors on dividers and bad paintings over dividers. Most motorists get confused during the night by missing to spot dividers due to poor visibility. Similarly, the Transport department was also looking to take stern action against fancy headlights. “We strictly inspect condition of both two-wheelers and four wheelers before issuing the registration. Officials register the vehicle after thoroughly checking headlights, brakes, engine capacity and others,” said D Panduranga Rao, joint transport commissioner. He said installation of powerful headlights or fancy lamps is a violation of the Motor Vehicles Act. Most motorists add these extra equipment after obtaining their registration to make the vehicle look more stylish.