Lakshadweep admin's 'no vehicle day' draws flak, BJP unit among critics

KOCHI: In a controversial order, Lakshadweep administration has declared Wednesdays as 'no vehicle day' across the archipelago, effectively banning residents from using their vehicles on that day.

"On this day, no motor vehicles (including vehicles of all types, except those used by persons with disabilities, for security and emergency medical purposes) shall be permitted to ply on the roads. Violating vehicles shall be fined 500," an order issued by the administration on Feb 17 said."The measure is being implemented to promote the health of the islanders by encouraging walking and cycling and reducing pollution from motor vehicle emissions.

All concerned are requested to co-operate and ensure compliance," the order said. Signed by district collector and secretary R Giri Sankar, the order will come into effect on Feb 25.The move has drawn objections from residents, who termed it an infringement on their rights. "If the intention is to promote physical exercise, it should be voluntary. Levying a fine for using one's own vehicle is unfair," said K Koya, a resident.

The UT unit of BJP has also objected to the order. In a letter to the administrator, the party unit said Lakshadweep had limited transportation facilities and infrastructure.

"For many residents - especially daily wage earners, small traders, fishermen, patients, students and employees - two-wheelers and small vehicles are essential for livelihood, medical needs, education and emergencies," the party said.

They are also required to transport men and materials from embarkation jetties, airport and helipads. If enforced, passengers arriving from the mainland and travelling within the islands will have to carry their luggage and walk kilometres," it said. The party said the order would amount to a govt-declared bandh, affecting normal life and economic activity."Unlike the mainland, alternative public transport systems are limited or unavailable on the islands.

The order disproportionately affects common people rather than serving its intended environmental objective," it added, seeking withdrawal of the order and voluntary participation instead of mandatory enforcement.Meanwhile, a meeting, convened by the collector, was held in Kavaratti on Thursday after various parties raised objections to the order.

Congress said it had strongly opposed the move at the meeting.Residents have also objected to the administration's decision to declare the Dak Bungalows in Chetlat and Bitra islands as licensed premises to serve liquor to persons holding a valid permit or licence under the Lakshadweep Prohibition Regulation. The Chetlat block Congress committee has sought withdrawal of the licences in a letter to the block development officer.