In a decisive move to enhance passenger safety, the central government has issued a strict directive to all states and union territories. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has mandated that no new bus should be registered unless it fully complies with all mandatory safety requirements.
Directive Issued After Fatal Bus Fires
The ministry's instruction comes in the wake of several tragic incidents of bus fires across the country, which have resulted in loss of lives. In a communication addressed to all state chief secretaries, the ministry emphasized the need for effective and immediate implementation of safety protocols. It has asked Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) to register buses only after verifying complete adherence to notified standards.
Mandatory Checks at Registration Stage
The ministry has specified that RTOs must ensure every bus is manufactured strictly as per the Central Motor Vehicle Rules and the Automotive Indian Standards (AIS). Key verification steps at this initial stage include:
- Checking the validity of the bus body builder's accreditation certificate.
- Examining and retaining on record a detailed bus body layout drawing. This drawing must clearly show emergency exits, door locations, gangways, and sleeper arrangements.
The directive explicitly states that registration should be denied if full compliance is not established.
Rigorous Fitness Test Inspections
Safety compliance must be re-verified when buses undergo their mandatory fitness tests at Automated Testing Stations (ATS). The ministry has outlined that during these inspections, authorities must thoroughly check:
- Fire safety equipment.
- Functionality and accessibility of all emergency exits.
- The overall structural condition of the vehicle.
- The electrical system to prevent short circuits.
As per existing law, fitness certificates for buses are valid for two years until the vehicle is eight years old. After that, the fitness certificate must be renewed every year.
Detailed Safety Norms for Buses
The ministry's order reiterates the specific AIS norms designed to prevent fire-related tragedies. For a standard 12-meter bus, the mandatory provisions include:
- Two fire extinguishers with a combined capacity of at least 10 kg.
- Four clearly marked exits: one emergency door, two roof hatches, and one window or glass exit.
- Buses longer than 12 meters must have one additional roof hatch.
- Mandatory installation of fire detection and suppression systems in the engine compartment and other areas prone to fires.
- A strict rule that there should be no separation between the passenger and driver compartments in any type of bus, ensuring clear communication and escape routes.
Action Against Non-Compliance
The ministry has empowered state authorities to take strong action against any party found violating these safety mandates. The directive states, "Appropriate action, as per the law, for instances of non-compliance by bus body builders, transport operators, or the concerned inspecting/approving authorities... may please be taken." This puts the onus on states to enforce the rules strictly to prevent future incidents caused by safety violations.
This comprehensive directive aims to plug gaps in the vehicle approval process and ensure that safety is not compromised at the point of registration or during the operational life of a bus.
