Vijay Mallya had earlier said no Indian driver was good enough to take part in Formula 1. Only if the tycoon had bothered to visit the streets of Ahmedabad, he would have been forced to eat his words.
But the Formula 1 driving skills that would have impressed Mallya has got the Ahmedabad traffic police department frowning. The department is determined not to let the city roads be used as racing tracks. It has also stepped up surveillance to this effect and has set up a task force for the same.
On Wednesday it nabbed one person for indulging in the speed thrill. DCP (traffic) MM Anarwala told DNA, "Traffic personnel will roam the city roads in civvies to get hold of those indulging in car racing." "Those found guilty will be arrested and appropriate action will be taken," Anarwala said. Officials said an offender will be booked under the violation of Motor Vehicles Act.
The task force has already registered two cases against such drivers. In fact, the force, with the help of Gujarat university police, was successful in arresting one Mohit Sukhwani after a high-speed chase.
Sources said the most popular roads for car racing were Gujarat university road, IIM crossroads and the Helmet crossroads. Most of the car racing took place late in the night. Sources in the police department said mainly youngsters participate in such things.
"They don't bother about the harm they can do to pedestrians and fellow drivers by such reckless driving," said a source. An official said most of those who race are in the age group of 25 to 35. "Forget about others, they don't even care about the car they drive. The car could cost Rs20 lakh or more but they are not bothered about it getting damaged," said the officials.
Although sources said some car races involve betting, officials denied any such happening. Officials said most of these youngsters indulge in such races for the fun and adrenaline rush. "We have not come across car races being held as part of a bet. They do it for the so called fun," said Anarwala.
Officials said if those indulging in car racing are also found to be inebriated they will also be booked under the prohibition act. The task force will be operational once the festive season of Navratri comes to an end, an official said.
