The Delhi government has tightened safety and
operational requirements for buses operating in the national capital following
the alleged gang-rape of a 16-year-old girl on a moving sleeper bus in Noida
recently.
In an order issued by the Transport department,
bus operators were directed to ensure that Vehicle Location Tracking Devices
and panic buttons remain functional at all times. The government has also
prohibited the use of curtains and glass fitted with films in buses, while
directing operators to prevent buses from stopping at unsafe or unauthorised
locations.
The directions come weeks after the teenage
girl was allegedly raped by the driver and conductor of a sleeper bus on the
night of August 4. According to Delhi Police, the two accused allegedly
abandoned the girl near Kashmere Gate after the incident.
The Transport department has directed bus
operators to ensure that essential safety systems, including Vehicle Location
Tracking Devices and panic buttons, are operational at all times. Buses shall
not have curtains or glass fitted with films, according to the order.
The department has also prohibited stopping at unsafe or unauthorised
locations, particularly in the middle of roads or at intersections.
Drivers must possess a valid driving licence
and wear the prescribed uniform, the order said. The government has further
directed operators to sensitise drivers, conductors and other crew members
about preventing harassment and the serious consequences of misconduct against
women passengers.
The order lays down specific instructions for
situations involving women passengers. In case of indecent behaviour,
molestation, eve-teasing or any other offence against a woman, the bus crew
must immediately inform the police. The bus must also be taken to the nearest
police station, police post or PCR van, the department directed.
“Passenger safety is non-negotiable,” Transport
Minister Pankaj Singh said. “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 order also requires drivers and other staff
to maintain courteous conduct with passengers. Driving under the influence of
alcohol or intoxicating substances has been strictly prohibited. Bus operators
have additionally been directed to verify drivers, conductors, attendants and
other staff before deploying them