Jokatte mishap: Truck carted passengers

MANGALORE: Following the Sunday’s accident in Jokatte where eight people were killed, it is said that breaking of the steering wheel caused the mishap.The Mahindra truck, which lost control, fell into the ditch. It was permitted to only carry goods and not passengers, sources said. They added that lack of enforcement of labour laws around Mangalore Special Economic Zone by departments concerned trigger such accidents.The truck plying 21 workers was overloaded. Though Panambur police had registered cases against contractors and sub-contractors for cramming labourers in a truck, no arrest was made so far.  Frequent accidents have taken place in this area but no warning boards or barricades have been placed.When contacted, Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Mallikarjuna said, “Despite repeated checking, buses and truck operators are violating rules by plying many passengers. RTO has received a complaint that the truck meant for transporting goods was carrying labourers. We will initiate strict action.”He added after the Jokatte accident, he had instructed inspectors to survey the stretch and install boards to prevent such occurrences. Citizens Forum for Mangalore Development joint coordinator Vidya Dinakar said these things were becoming common. “There is a need of inspecting working conditions in the industry. The company does not follow any guidelines and contractors treat workers like animals. The Labour department should initiate stringent action against violators.” On February 12, three people were killed and 20 others injured when a bus plying towards Santhi Nagar in Bajpe plunged into a ravine.