Serious concerns over public safety have emerged in Curchorem, where cycles are allegedly being illegally converted into makeshift four-wheelers by plastic bottle and cardboard collectors using scooter engines.
According to local sources, these modified vehicles operate without number plates, valid registration, or driving licences. To evade detection, the scooter engines are reportedly concealed within the structure of the vehicles. The unauthorised modifications not only violate multiple motor vehicle laws but also pose a grave risk to pedestrians and other road users.
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Adding to the concern are allegations that traffic police personnel are allowing such vehicles to continue operating after allegedly collecting informal fines of around ₹500, instead of taking proper legal action. Residents claim that this practice has enabled the illegal vehicles to ply freely on public roads despite repeated violations.
Locals have warned that these unregulated and mechanically unsafe vehicles are accidents waiting to happen and have urged authorities to intervene immediately. They have called on the traffic police and transport department to stop the alleged practice of informal settlements and initiate strict enforcement, including seizure of vehicles and prosecution of offenders, to safeguard public safety.
The issue has sparked demands for accountability and stricter oversight to prevent further endangerment of lives on Curchorem’s roads.
