Tow trucks flout traffic guidelines

Laxity on the part of the city traffic police seems to have put them on the wrong side of the law. Even though it is mandatory for a traffic constable to be present in a tow truck whenever a vehicle is being towed, police personnel are openly 'flouting' norms.

Laxity on the part of the city traffic police seems to have put them on the wrong side of the law. Even though it is mandatory for a traffic constable to be present in a tow truck whenever a vehicle is being towed, police personnel are openly 'flouting' norms.

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No constable is seen on such trucks, instead, private security guards have been engaged for the purpose. Private contractors have also been reportedly hired as 'tow away vehicles'.

"There was no police official in the tow truck. People engaged for the purpose misbehaved with us and also damaged our vehicles. We are clueless about which agency to contact and get our vehicles released. While a challan of Rs.100 is issued for wrong parking, Rs.200 is charged as the tow away fee from us," said Ajay Kumar, whose car was taken by the tow truck.

Sources said nearly seven vehicles have been engaged by the traffic police to carry out works in the city.

"We have asked these contractors to display the name of police stations where the vehicles are taken to. These directions were issued during a recent meeting. We have also instructed them to follow the rules. If the contractors don't have a traffic constable with them, it will amount to a violation of rules. We will take strict action against them and if necessary, will recommend cancellation of their contract," said Bharti Arora, DCP (traffic).