Man slapped with Rs 2.5 lakh fine for blocking ambulance, licence revoked
PTC News Desk: The Kerala Police have revoked a driver's licence of a man for blocking an ambulance. A fine of Rs 2.5 lakh has also been imposed on the driver.
The incident occurred on November 7 in Chalakudy, with the driver allegedly denying the right of way to an emergency vehicle en route to Thrissur Medical College, however, some reports indicate the ambulance was travelling from Ponnani.
A video shot and shared by paramedics showed a silver Maruti Suzuki Ciaz deliberately blocking the ambulance for more than two minutes on a two-lane road. Despite the ambulance driver's constant honking and siren blaring the car driver continuously manoeuvred to prevent any attempts to overtake.
Authorities identified the driver via the vehicle's license plate and took legal action. The driver was charged with violating multiple parts of the Motor Vehicles Act, including failing to yield to an emergency vehicle, obstructing the activities of an authorised authority, and failing to carry a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate.
The fine amount includes penalties for multiple violations, demonstrating the gravity of impeding emergency services. Section 194E of the Motor Vehicles Act states that refusing to make way to an ambulance may result in up to six months in prison, a Rs 10,000 fine, or both.
The Kerala Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) reaffirmed that providing ambulances with a clear path is a legal and moral responsibility. Officials highlighted that such acts delay crucial medical aid and may risk lives.
- With inputs from agencies
