Mangaluru: Despite clear instructions from the Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner that gas tankers would not be allowed to ply between 10 pm to 6 am, tankers continue to ply unabated, breaking the rules at will.
Taking cognisance of the same, DC A.B. Ibrahim has tankers seen violating the rules will be seized.

He said that the onus of safe movement of gas tankers lies totally with gas companies, specially on highways. In case of accidents the companies will not be spared.

In addition, it was made clear by the district administration that each gas tanker should have one driver and one cleaner. All tankers must be equipped with speed governors and they must ensure that they are not parked in densely populated areas.

The DC ordered that the entire cost of damages must be recovered from the gas company involved in the recent accident that took place at Soorikumer near Mangalore . The Police and the RTO authorities were instructed to seize all gas tankers which are not abiding by  the rules and safety regulations .

The meeting held recently was attended by Superintendent of Police Dr.Sharanappa, ASP Vincent  and the representatives of leading gas companies and distributors.

Emergency Relief Centres Must

In case  of accidents due to leakage and blast of gas tankers on Highways between Mangaluru – Bangalore, Mangaluru – Udupi ,it is the responsibility of the oil companies to provide relief, rescue and compensation to the victims . Emergency centres must be set up on highways with large cranes to prevent major mishaps and to clear the road in case of traffic jam due to accidents. Companies which flout the norms will not be allowed to escape from the clutches of law and serious action will be taken against them.