The Meghalaya government has taken a significant step toward enhancing passenger safety by making it compulsory for all commercial passenger vehicles to display detailed information about their drivers and conductors. This new mandate aims to bring greater transparency and accountability to the state's public transport system.
What the New Notification Mandates
According to the official notification issued by the state transport department on November 10, all vehicle permit holders must now prominently display crucial information about their operating staff. This comprehensive rule applies to taxis, auto-rickshaws, buses, national permit passenger vehicles, tourist permit vehicles, and school transport vehicles.
The required information includes the driver's name, driving license number, contact details, and permanent address. Similarly, conductors must have their name, license number, contact information, and permanent address displayed where applicable.
Implementation and Display Requirements
The transport department has specified that the information must be displayed in both English and one regional language to ensure maximum understanding among passengers. The details should be placed on the dashboard or the rear of the front seat, making them clearly visible to all passengers boarding the vehicle.
This strategic placement ensures that passengers can easily access and verify the credentials of the driver and conductor throughout their journey. The order, signed by the secretary of the state transport department, emphasizes that this measure is specifically designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and protection for passengers.
Impact on Passenger Safety and Transport System
This groundbreaking move represents a significant advancement in passenger safety protocols within Meghalaya's public transportation network. By making driver and conductor details readily available, passengers can travel with greater confidence and security.
The regulation also establishes a stronger framework for accountability, as both drivers and conductors become more easily identifiable and traceable. This development is expected to contribute to an overall improvement in the quality and reliability of commercial passenger transport services across the state.
Vehicle operators and permit holders are expected to comply with this new requirement promptly, as the transport department notification carries the full force of law. The implementation of these measures demonstrates the state government's commitment to prioritizing citizen safety in public transportation.
