Sir,

Recently, a cow was fatally struck by a speeding vehicle on Chamundi Hill Road. The reckless and high-speed driving by private vehicle users on this Road poses a severe threat to public safety.

This incident is not isolated, but part of a recurring pattern of dangerous behaviour by car and two-wheeler drivers. These drivers frequently engage in dangerous overtaking, disregarding oncoming traffic, thereby endangering the lives of morning walkers, pedestrians and other road-users.

Despite repeated complaints to the authorities concerned, the measures taken have been temporary and insufficient, allowing law-breaking drivers to continue their reckless behaviour with impunity.

The footpaths along Chamundi Hill Road, meant to provide safety for pedestrians, offer little protection when vehicles are driven at excessive speeds and in a manner that disregards the safety of other road-users.

I urge the authorities to take stringent and sustained action to address this menace on a war-footing. The following measures could be considered to regulate and streamline this dangerous situation:

1.  Increased patrolling and deployment of Traffic Police to monitor and enforce speed limits.

2.  Installation of speed-breakers, warning signs and speed cameras to deter reckless driving.

3.  Strict enforcement of penalties, including fines and licence suspension for traffic rule violations.

4. Public awareness campaigns to educate drivers on safe driving practices.

Without prompt and decisive action, the risk of further accidents, injuries and loss of life — both human and animal — remains imminent.

I hope the authorities will prioritise the safety of law-abiding citizens and take immediate steps to bring rule-breaking drivers to account, ensuring Chamundi Hill Road is safe for all.

– P. Rajan, K.C. Layout, 30.7.2025

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