Driving habits in Kerala present a unique blend of cultural nuances and practical challenges, often reflecting broader societal behaviours and infrastructural constraints. While the state is known for its picturesque landscapes and rich heritage, navigating its roads can be a perplexing experience due to certain prevalent driving habits.
One notable characteristic of driving in Kerala is the general disregard for traffic lines. Lane discipline is often observed more in the breach than in practice. Vehicles frequently switch lanes without signaling, and overtaking from the wrong side is a common occurrence. This lack of adherence to marked lanes can lead to chaotic situations, especially during peak traffic hours, contributing to congestion and increasing the risk of accidents.
Pedestrian safety is another significant concern. Despite the presence of zebra crossings and pedestrian signals, drivers often fail to yield to those on foot. Pedestrians are forced to navigate through speeding vehicles, making it dangerous to cross even at designated points. This lack of respect for pedestrian rights creates an environment where walking becomes hazardous, particularly in busy urban areas.
The transition from pocket roads (narrow, often residential lanes) to main roads is another area where driving habits in Kerala stand out. There is often little to no control or caution exercised when merging onto busier roads. Drivers tend to enter main roads abruptly, expecting oncoming traffic to adjust or slow down. This behaviour not only disrupts the flow of traffic but also increases the likelihood of collisions.
The clash between heavy buses and smaller vehicles is a frequent sight on Kerala’s roads. Buses, often operated with tight schedules, tend to dominate the road, sometimes at the expense of smaller vehicles. The aggressive driving style of bus drivers, who may speed and manoeuvre through traffic with little consideration for smaller cars, two-wheelers, and auto-rickshaws, leads to tense and dangerous interactions. This disparity in vehicle size and driving aggressiveness contributes to several traffic mishaps and near-miss incidents.
Additionally, the widespread use of two-wheelers adds another layer of complexity to the traffic dynamics in Kerala. Motorcyclists often weave through traffic, sometimes ignoring traffic signals and driving against the flow to reach their destinations faster. This unpredictable behaviour further exacerbates the already challenging driving conditions.
Driving habits in Kerala reflect a mix of nonchalance towards traffic rules and an adaptive, albeit risky, approach to the road’s chaos. The lack of lane discipline, disrespect for pedestrian rights, uncontrolled merging from pocket roads, and the dominance of heavy vehicles create a challenging driving environment. Addressing these issues requires concerted efforts from traffic authorities, improved road infrastructure, and a cultural shift towards more respectful and rule-abiding driving practices. Only then can the roads of Kerala become safer and more orderly for all users.
