Sir,

This refers to the views of Vinayakrishna on the dangers caused by use of white LED headlights (SOM dated May 6). Recently two other readers had also voiced about the use of high beam lights after sunset.

There was also a news item in a national daily where the Police Commissioner of Mangaluru had ordered to curb the use of high beam lights. They had also imposed penalties on violators, as this is a punishable offence.

This is an offence which harms the oncoming person other than the violator and hence should be dealt with firmly.

In my view, Police should concentrate more on these violators than those not wearing helmet or triple riders. What is surprising is that there is not even an attempt to create awareness about this fatal violation. In fact, the checking by Police stops after sunset. Booking of a few cases here and there and publicity about this may create desired impact on the general public.

Most of the vehicle users do not know that it is an offence. Cattle movement on roads such as MG Road after sunset, absence of street-lights, unscientific and unauthorised mini-road humps without reflectors, or even crossing of roads by pedestrians in darkness adds to the chances of fatal accidents when high beam is used.

The Police have a daunting task, but have no option than to face it. A simple and first step in this direction could be to sensitise the public by warning such violators at traffic signals.

Night patrolling to catch drunk driving could also be used for punishing high beam violators.

When publicity is given to such actions it will definitely have positive impact. I am a senior citizen and avoid driving after sunset due to above reason, but, it is practically not possible to completely stop it. There may be many more like me.

Hence, it is an earnest request to the Traffic Police to take some steps in this direction in the interest of general public.

– K.S. Rao, Mysuru, 11.5.2023

You can also mail us your views, opinions, and stories to [email protected]