Thanjavur: Transport officials today seized three load autos carrying passengers and six auto rickshaws carrying school children beyond the permissible limits in Thanjavur.

Following orders from District Collector Annadurai, RTO officials, led by regional transport officer Rajkumar, and flying squad members launched a drive against vehicles violating transport rules. Motor vehicle inspectors Vijayakumar and Prabakaran were other members of the team.

They conducted a surprise inspection on vehicles passing through Thanjavur bypass when they came across nine vehicles – three load autos and six auto rickshaws. The load autos were ferrying people while the auto rickshaws transporting school children – all beyond the permissible limits. Subsequently, the officials seized the vehicles and sent a report to the Collector recommending further action.

The driver of an auto, however, justified carrying school children beyond the permissible limits saying that they are forced to take more children because of the fuel prices and road tax. “We have even asked the parents to hike our charges but they are not willing. In such scenario, we have no option but to go for overloading,” he said.