In a swift and decisive action, the Kerala Police revoked the driving license of a private vehicle owner in Thrissur and imposed a fine of ₹2.5 lakh for obstructing the path of an ambulance. The incident, which took place on November 7 along the Chalakudy route leading to Thrissur Medical College, was captured on dashcam footage and quickly went viral on social media.

The video shows a silver Maruti Suzuki car being closely followed by an ambulance on a narrow, two-lane road. Despite the ambulance driver’s persistent honking and blaring sirens, the car’s driver refused to give way, even appearing to block the ambulance’s attempts to overtake. Some reports suggest the ambulance was traveling from Ponnani to Thrissur.

Authorities acted promptly after the video surfaced, citing the driver for multiple violations under the Motor Vehicles Act. These include:

Failing to yield to an ambulance, as mandated under Section 194E of the Act, which prescribes imprisonment up to six months, a fine of ₹10,000, or both.

Obstructing an authorized vehicle’s discharge of functions.

Not carrying a valid Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC).

The hefty fine and license revocation are seen as measures to underscore the seriousness of traffic violations, especially those that hinder emergency services.

The incident sparked widespread outrage, with social media users criticizing the car driver’s behavior. An Instagram user shared an image of a police officer at the violator’s residence, sarcastically calling it a “trophy presentation” for blocking the ambulance.

Many called for stricter enforcement of road safety laws. “Such inhumane and selfish acts must be made non-bailable offenses,” one user commented. Another lauded the Kerala Police for their swift action, stating, “The ₹2.5 lakh fine and license cancellation send a strong message about the importance of public safety.”