Delhi govt warns bus operators against ignoring passenger safety norms

New Delhi, Sep 1 (AHN) The Delhi government has issued directions to all bus operators mandating strict compliance with prescribed safety, security and operational requirements for the protection of passengers, an official said on Tuesday.

Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh said, “Safety measures must be implemented in letter and spirit, not merely on paper. Bus operators must ensure that all required systems, equipment and procedures are in place and functioning properly.”

He said the government will take strict action against violations.

The Transport Department will undertake enforcement action to check compliance with these directions and other applicable provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and the rules made thereunder, he said.

Bus operators have also been directed to circulate these instructions among their drivers and staff and ensure strict compliance, he said.

The directions, issued by the Transport Department in the interest of passenger safety and security, apply to all bus operators, including buses from other States plying or operating in Delhi, he said.

Special emphasis has been placed on the safety and security of women and children, and violations may invite action in accordance with the law.

Pankaj Kumar Singh said the Delhi Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, is committed to strengthening passenger safety across the public transport ecosystem and ensuring that mandatory safety norms are effectively implemented on the ground.

Following the instructions of the Minister, the Transport Department has directed every bus operator to ensure that Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTDs) and panic buttons remain functional and operational at all times, an official statement said.

Panic buttons must be easily accessible to passengers and maintained in proper working condition.

All buses must also carry serviceable fire extinguishers and first-aid kits. Operators have further been directed to ensure that buses are parked during night or idle hours only at authorised, secure and adequately lit locations, the statement said.

Every bus shall possess a valid Fitness Certificate and shall be mechanically fit. Operators must also ensure compliance with applicable emission norms and carry a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate, it said.

Bus operators have further been directed to follow applicable traffic rules and designated bus lanes. Passenger boarding and alighting must take place only at designated bus stops or authorised locations. Stopping at unsafe or unauthorised locations, particularly in the middle of roads or at intersections, is strictly prohibited.