Bengaluru: In the wake of the Kurnool bus fire tragedy, the Karnataka government has swung into action. Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has issued a directive to the Managing Directors of all four state transport corporations — KSRTC, BMTC, NWKRTC, and KKRTC — to conduct an immediate safety audit of all buses.
In his letter, the minister instructed that buses carrying commercial cargo and passenger luggage must not transport flammable or explosive materials under any circumstances. The corporations have been asked to ensure that emergency safety measures are in place, particularly in air-conditioned buses, where hammers to break glass windows during emergencies must be compulsorily installed.
New Safety Guidelines Issued After Fire Mishap
Minister Reddy emphasised that in many long-distance and sleeper coaches, luggage compartments are often used for commercial cargo, which can include dangerous items.
“Corporation officials must ensure strict monitoring so that no flammable or explosive goods are transported in passenger buses,” he stated.
He also cited the Hyderabad accident, where a bus caught fire after a bicycle came in its way, forcing passengers to escape by breaking emergency windows.
“Such incidents must never happen in Karnataka. Officials must conduct checks and ensure every bus is equipped with functional emergency exits and glass-breaking tools,” he added.
Strict Scrutiny of Illegal Modifications
The minister also noted that several buses operating in neighbouring states had undergone unauthorised conversions into sleeper coaches without proper approval or NOC. He directed that all such modifications and registrations be verified, especially for vehicles brought from outside Karnataka.
Officials have been asked to submit a compliance report within the week, confirming that all state-run buses meet fire and safety standards.
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