Use of siren in cars of VIPs banned in Puducherry

Use of siren in cars of VIPs, including the escort and pilot vehicles of the Lieutenant Governor, has been banned in Puducherry.

However, emergency services like ambulances and fire service vehicles, will be exempted from the restriction on the use of siren.

The ban order has been issued by Puducherry Lt Governor Kiran Bedi, a retired IPS officer.

Bedi, who had overseen traffic arrangements for the 1982 Asian Games in Delhi and the 1983 CHOGM meet in Goa, has also directed that no special privilege will be accorded for cars of VIPs such as stopping of traffic, so that people's right to freedom of movement is not hindered in any manner.

Traffic police will also ensure that sufficient number of personnel are presentfor regulating traffic without halting it or inconveniencing commuters, according to a press release issued by the Secretary to the Lt Governor yesterday.