Bus safety drive nets Rs 72,330 fine, 72 vehicles face action

 

 

 

ACTING on directions issued by the Road Transport Department Headquarters and senior officials, the Raipur Transport Flying Squad on Thursday carried out a special enforcement drive aimed at strengthening passenger safety in public transport buses. The campaign focused on strict compliance with mandatory safety norms, including the availability and functionality of fire-fighting equipment, clearly marked emergency exits and other essential safety provisions. During the course of the drive, flying squad teams conducted systematic inspections of buses operating on key routes in and around Raipur.

 

Officials found several vehicles operating in violation of prescribed safety standards. As a result, action was initiated against 72 buses, and a total penalty amounting to Rs 72,330 was recovered on the spot. Transport officials said the checks were not limited to documentation alone, but extended to physical verification of safety equipment. Fire extinguishers were checked for validity and working condition, while emergency exits were examined to ensure they were accessible and not obstructed.

 

In several buses, shortcomings such as non-functional fire extinguishers, blocked exits and inadequate safety preparedness were detected. Bus owners and operators were issued clear instructions to strictly adhere to passenger safety norms. They were advised to ensure periodic inspection and timely replacement of firefighting equipment and to keep emergency exit routes free from any obstruction at all times. Officials also cautioned that negligence in this regard could pose serious risks during emergencies and would invite stringent action.

 

Transport Flying Squad in-charge Keshav Rajwade stated that passenger safety remains a top priority for the department. He said such inspection drives are not one-time exercises but part of an ongoing enforcement strategy to instil accountability among transport operators. Rajwade underlined that surprise checks would continue across the district to deter violations and improve overall safety standards in public transport.

 

“The drive also served as an awareness initiative, sensitising bus operators to their responsibility towards commuters. The Transport Department reiterated its appeal to passengers to report safety lapses, assuring prompt action on credible complaints,” Rajwade maintained.