Ranchi Roads: Unfit Vehicles Pose Safety Hazard, Commuters Allege

Ranchi: A large number of dilapidated and poorly maintained vehicles, both govt and private, are plying on city roads without proper fitness checks creating safety hazards, commuters alleged.

From municipal garbage carriers to water tankers, tractor-mounted units and a growing fleet of CNG-run autorickshaws, many vehicles lack basic safety features such as functional brakes, headlights and valid fitness certificates.

Commuters said the problem has worsened in recent months, with damaged vehicles frequently breaking down mid-traffic or operating in unsafe conditions. Poorly maintained autos, in particular, has raised concerns due to their frequency and passenger load.

“I travel daily through Kutchery Road and Lalpur, and you can easily spot autos with broken indicators, dim lights or loose doors. At night, it becomes extremely risky because many of them are barely visible. It feels like enforcement exists only on paper,” alleged Nita Goel, an office-goer.

“Authorities talk about modernisation, but on the ground, old and unfit vehicles are everywhere. Whether it’s garbage vehicles or private autos, no one seems to be checking them. One major accident is enough to expose the negligence,” said Anil Paswan, a commuter at Harmu.

Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) had inducted more than 300 garbage collection vehicles to streamline waste management. However, several old vehicles still operate. Similar concerns persist around water tankers and tractor units that continue to operate despite visible wear and tear.

District transport officer Akhilesh Kumar said enforcement action is underway but acknowledged gaps regarding civic body vehicles. “Regarding RMC’s dilapidated vehicles, we asked for a report some time ago. Once we receive it, we will take action. Action is being taken regularly against private unfit vehicles. We conduct inspections frequently and seize such vehicles,” he said.