Goa Transport Department Issues Mandatory AIS-119 Safety Compliance for Buses
The transport department in Goa has issued a critical public notice, mandating that all buses operating within the state must achieve full compliance with the AIS-119 safety standards by the deadline of March 31. This directive is a direct response to instructions received from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which emphasized the urgent need to implement essential safety recommendations originally formulated by the Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT).
Understanding the AIS-119 Safety Guidelines
The AIS-119 guidelines establish comprehensive and mandatory safety and construction standards specifically designed for sleeper coaches, also known as type IV buses, across India. These standards are meticulously crafted to address critical areas of passenger safety, with a strong focus on enhancing fire resistance capabilities, ensuring the availability and functionality of emergency exits, maintaining robust structural integrity, and optimizing the layout of sleeper berths for safety and comfort.
Four Non-Negotiable Safety Measures Outlined
In its detailed notice, the transport department has clearly outlined four non-negotiable safety measures that must be implemented across all applicable vehicles without exception. These mandatory requirements include:
- Removal of Driver Partition Doors: All driver partition doors must be eliminated to facilitate easier access and egress in emergency situations.
- Mandatory Emergency Exits: Every bus with a length of up to 12 meters must be equipped with fully functional and accessible emergency exits.
- Fire Detection and Suppression Systems: All sleeper coaches are required to have fire detection systems installed, along with fully operational fire suppression systems that are ready for immediate use.
- Structural Compliance for Sleeper Coaches: Sleeper berths in these coaches must not incorporate any sliders, and no unauthorized chassis extensions are permitted, ensuring structural safety and stability.
Immediate Withdrawal of Non-Compliant Vehicles
The notice explicitly states that any vehicles found to be non-compliant with these AIS-119 standards must be withdrawn from service immediately. Transport authorities have issued a stern warning, indicating that failure to adhere to this directive will result in strict legal action, including the imposition of penalties as prescribed under applicable laws and regulations.
Directive in Force with Immediate Effect
Authorities have stressed that this safety directive comes into force with immediate effect, leaving no room for delay. All bus operators, encompassing private bus owners as well as the state-run Kadamba Transport Corporation Ltd, are obligated to ensure full and prompt compliance with these enhanced safety standards to safeguard passenger welfare and meet regulatory requirements.
