NEW DELHI: Days after a 16-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped inside a moving bus, the Delhi government has tightened safety norms for bus operators, ordering them to ensure panic buttons and Vehicle Location Tracking Devices remain functional and prohibiting curtains and films on bus glass.The Transport department, in an order issued on Tuesday, also directed operators to ensure that buses stop only at authorised and safe locations and that all drivers possess valid licences and wear prescribed uniforms, news agency PTI reported.
Delhi buses cannot have curtains or tinted films
The new directions prohibit curtains and glass fitted with films in buses.Operators have also been told that stopping at unsafe or unauthorised locations, especially in the middle of roads or at intersections, will not be permitted.Buses can be parked during night and idle hours only at authorised, secure and adequately lit locations, according to the order.
Crew to be sensitised on women’s safety
The Transport department has directed operators to sensitise drivers, conductors and other crew members on preventing harassment of women passengers and the serious consequences of misconduct.In case of indecent behaviour, molestation, eve-teasing or any other offence against a woman, the crew must immediately inform police and take the bus to the nearest police station, police post or PCR van, the order said.“Drivers and other staff shall maintain courteous conduct with passengers. Driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating substances is strictly prohibited. Operators shall ensure verification of drivers, conductors, attendants and other staff before deployment,” the order said.
School bus, pollution norms also tightened
The order states that school buses must have an authorised attendant wherever required and that doors must remain securely closed while the vehicle is moving.Operators have also been directed to comply with applicable emission norms and carry a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate.
‘Passenger safety is non-negotiable’: Minister
Transport minister Pankaj Singh said the government would not compromise on passenger safety.“Passenger safety is non-negotiable. Every bus operating in Delhi must meet prescribed safety and operational standards, with essential systems and equipment remaining functional at all times. We are committed to making public transport safer and more reliable for every commuter.”The government specifically ordered operators to ensure that Vehicle Location Tracking Devices and panic buttons remain functional at all times.The measures follow the alleged gang-rape of a 16-year-old Class 11 student from Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh, who police said was assaulted by the driver and conductor of a sleeper bus.The two accused have been arrested.The incident took place on the night of August 4 and revived memories of the 2012 Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case.Police said the girl was allegedly assaulted during the journey before being abandoned near Kashmere Gate, more than 40km away.The government said the directions are aimed at strengthening safety and operational standards across Delhi’s public transport system.(With agency inputs)
