Private Travel Bus Safety Lapses Trigger Concern After Multiple Accidents
A spate of accidents involving private travel buses across the state since October last year has triggered concerns over passenger safety and regulatory enforcement, prompting the government to intensify inspections of vehicle fitness and compliance standards.
Transport Minister Ramprasad Reddy recently carried out inspections during which officials found that several buses were operating without adhering to mandatory safety norms. In many cases, emergency exits were either poorly maintained or not functional, officials said.
According to transport department data, there are 111 All India permit buses operating in the district, and over 80 cases have been registered in the past six months for various violations.
Investigations have also found that several private operators are registering buses in other states and securing All India permits to run services. Officials said vehicles involved in recent accidents include buses registered outside the state, such as those linked to incidents in Kurnool (registered in Odisha) and Markapuram (registered in Arunachal Pradesh).
Officials have also raised concerns over steep fares charged by private operators, particularly during festive seasons, when ticket prices are reportedly doubled.
Transport department officials noted a shift in the vehicle fitness certification system, with Automated Testing Stations (ATS) operated by private agencies now conducting inspections using machine-based processes, reducing direct departmental oversight.
Inspections have identified multiple safety lapses, including non-functional emergency exits, absence of fire safety equipment, improper driver cabin arrangements, lack of separation between driver and passenger areas, and absence of speed control mechanisms.
Fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and emergency hammers were found missing in several buses, while defects were also reported in headlights, brakes, and wipers. Overall maintenance of several vehicles was found to be poor.