A viral X post has triggered nationwide debate:
The video shows a couple cooking a meal directly on a National Highway. Many found it shocking, others amusing, but the important question is:
Is cooking on a national highway allowed? What does the law say? And why is this extremely dangerous?
This exchange has sparked a nationwide debate about road safety, public awareness, and the misuse of highways.
Is Cooking on a National Highway Allowed?
No. Cooking on a national highway or on the roadside is illegal and extremely unsafe. Highways are meant for high-speed travel, not for recreational activities or makeshift kitchens. Even in proper rest areas—like food courts, fuel stations, and parking bays—open cooking is not allowed.
People often misunderstand empty spaces along the highway as rest areas, but true rest areas are clearly marked, safely separated from traffic, and built with proper amenities.
Why This Behaviour Is Dangerous
National highways carry vehicles moving at high speeds. A sudden obstacle—like people sitting and cooking—can cause drivers to panic and lose control, resulting in collisions or multi-vehicle accidents.
Open flames and gas cylinders near fast-moving traffic also create fire hazards, especially with fuel tankers frequently passing by.
Such behaviour puts both the couple and motorists at risk and encourages others to follow dangerous practices.
What the Law Says
Indian law clearly prohibits such activities. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, stopping unnecessarily or obstructing traffic on a national highway is an offence. Using the shoulder or roadside for activities unrelated to travel, including cooking, is also illegal.
The Indian Penal Code further strengthens this. Section 283 penalizes any act that creates obstruction or danger on a public road. Section 279 can apply when the act poses a serious risk to life due to negligence. These offences can result in fines or, in severe cases, imprisonment.
What Police Can Do
Police and highway patrol teams can take immediate action. They may impose spot fines, issue legal notices, remove individuals from the dangerous area, or seize hazardous items like gas cylinders. If the action creates a significant threat to public safety, the police can register a case under the relevant IPC sections.
India’s Road Safety Reality
India has one of the highest road accident fatality rates in the world, and a large percentage of these occur on highways. Many accidents are caused when people stop in unmarked places, walk on highways, or engage in unsafe roadside activities.
The viral video may seem humorous at first glance, but it highlights a serious lack of awareness about highway safety among the public.
What People Should Do Instead
Travellers should use only official rest stops for meals and breaks. These areas are designed to ensure safety. Cooking or stopping on the roadside should never be done. In emergencies, hazard lights must be used, and people should stand far away from the road while waiting for help.
Conclusion
The couple’s claim that cooking on a highway is allowed because it’s a rest area is entirely incorrect. The act is illegal, unsafe, and potentially life-threatening. This incident should serve as a wake-up call.
Highways are not picnic spots. They are high-risk zones demanding caution and respect for the law.
Greater awareness, responsible behaviour, and stronger enforcement are essential to prevent tragedies and ensure safer roads for everyone.
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