Kurnool Fire: Telangana Intensifies Crackdown on Private Buses; 14 Cases Booked

Following the deadly Kurnool bus fire, Telangana Transport Department has ramped up inspections, penalizing 14 private buses for safety violations. The move highlights the state’s stricter stance on passenger safety after the Andhra Pradesh tragedy.

Kurnool Fire Exposes Critical Safety Lapses

A private bus in Kurnool caught fire due to an electrical short circuit, killing multiple passengers and injuring others. Investigations revealed the bus lacked fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and was overcrowded, sparking outrage across Telugu states.

In response, Telangana launched surprise checks at key checkpoints like Jogulamba Gadwal and Alampur. Transport Commissioner J. Pandurang Naik warned, “Buses violating norms will be impounded, and operators face heavy fines.”

14 Private Buses Penalized for Safety Violations

Over the past week, authorities booked 14 cases, including:
– Overloading: 6 buses carried excess passengers.
– Faulty Fire Safety: 4 buses had missing/defective fire extinguishers.
– Expired Permits: 3 buses operated with invalid documents.
– Unauthorized Routes: 1 bus ran without approval.

Fines totaling ₹3.2 lakh were issued, with permits of three repeat offenders suspended. Two buses were seized for lacking valid insurance.

Public Demands Accountability; Operators Cite Bureaucratic Delays

While passenger groups welcome the crackdown, private bus operators claim delays in permit renewals due to red tape. Telangana Private Bus Operators’ Association (TPBOA) urged streamlined processes.

Frequent traveler Ramesh Kumar said, “Inspections fade after tragedies—this must change.”

New Safety Reforms Proposed

The state plans stricter measures, including:
– Mandatory GPS tracking
– Quarterly safety audits
– Tighter inter-state safety standards with Andhra Pradesh

Meanwhile, Kurnool fire survivors seek justice, with a PIL demanding compensation and a judicial probe.

Will the Kurnool Tragedy Bring Lasting Change?

While Telangana’s actions are a positive step, consistent enforcement is crucial. Passengers can report违规 buses via toll-free helpline: 1800-425-6666.

— Reported by NextMinuteNews Hyderabad Bureau

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