Trichy: After the ban on the entry of heavy vehicles transporting vegetables to Gandhi market , locals have seen a spurt in the frequency of the banned motorised fish carts on city roads. As per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, alteration is not permitted in any motor vehicle after registration with the Regional Transport Office concerned. Yet, unregistered and illegally altered fish carts equipped with two-wheeler engines ply in the city.With no direction indicators, tail lamps or proper chassis, the motorised fish carts are a threat to road users, particularly two-wheeler riders. Most of the times the motorised fish carts run with protruding goods such as iron rods and sharp construction objects. It may be recalled that the Madras high court banned the motorised fish carts in 2008. Even now one can see the banned contraptions waiting for the traffic police constable’s signal to steer past the signals without being intercepted."A few days ago, on the on Ariyamangalam RoB, I barely escapedfrom colliding with a motorised fish cart carrying protruding steel materials," a motorist said. At least 150-200 such unlawful motorised fish carts are being used by traders, particularly in Gandhi market, to shift goods for minimal fare. When contacted, an officer with traffic police wing said that they are entitled to seize the engines of the motorised fish carts. "We have been seizing such vehicles and will strengthen the drive," the official added.

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