Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Feb 16: Following the fire tragedy involving a private bus in Chitradurga last month, the state government has reportedly begun taking passenger safety more seriously. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has also intervened in the matter, seeking measures to prevent such fire-related incidents. Acting on the commission’s directions, the state transport department held an important meeting with private bus owners and has issued strict instructions to mandatorily implement eight safety regulations to prevent future mishaps.

The meeting, held under the chairmanship of the transport minister recently, saw detailed discussions on the design of private buses—especially sleeper buses—their safety arrangements and fire prevention measures. After the Chitradurga fire tragedy, the NHRC had written to the state government urging a re-examination of safety standards in private buses. In response, the transport department swung into action and directed that at least eight major safety rules must be compulsorily implemented by the end of February. Accordingly, the transport minister issued a stern warning to private bus owners, making it clear that compliance with these rules is mandatory.

As announced by the transport department, the following eight safety norms have been made compulsory for sleeper buses:

• The rear door behind the driver in sleeper buses must be opened.
• Sliders must be provided in sleeper berths.
• Fire detection systems must be installed within a month.
• Installation of a 10-kg fire extinguisher is mandatory.
• Unauthorised extension of the chassis has been prohibited.
• Certification from an approved testing agency is compulsory.
• Fitness certificates (FC) will be issued only if passenger safety standards are met.
• Registration will be allowed only after verifying the authenticity of the bus body-building agency.

Officials clarified during the meeting that strict action will be initiated against buses that fail to comply with these norms. Measures such as cancellation of fitness certificates, restrictions on bus operations and imposition of fines may also be enforced.

Overall, the government, having learned lessons from private bus fire accidents, has adopted a firm stance with no room for leniency when it comes to protecting passengers’ lives. The newly announced safety rules are expected to be implemented on the ground by the end of February.