HC Calls for Action on Private Buses Driving Recklessly

Speedy Summary

• The Kerala High Court directed the State government to curb reckless and competitive driving by private buses in Kochi.
• It proposed updating bus time schedules across various routes as a preventive measure.
• Justice Amit Rawal suggested hefty fines for offenders, with harsher penalties for repeat violations. non-compliant buses may face seizure.
• The court emphasized adherence to norms regarding time gaps between buses: five minutes in cities and ten minutes in rural areas.
• This action comes after multiple fatal accidents involving private buses, including the recent deaths of two young riders within a week.
• Earlier High court orders included displaying enforcement officers’ contact numbers on buses-a measure implemented on a limited scale.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The Kerala High Court’s intervention highlights ongoing concerns about public safety tied to private bus operations. Reckless driving primarily stems from competitive practices aimed at increasing passenger numbers-a systemic issue requiring coordinated regulatory measures.Imposing fines and enforcing clear time schedules could address immediate safety risks while promoting long-term efficiency in public transport.

However, effective execution depends on comprehensive collaboration between enforcement agencies, the Motor Vehicles department, and bus operators. While previous steps like displaying complaint numbers have seen limited impact due to inconsistent application, stricter directives with tangible consequences may drive compliance this time. If successfully enforced, these measures could serve as a precedent for regulatory reforms across othre states grappling with similar issues.

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