Bus drivers, conductors should educate passengers on emergency safety: Hyderabad Traffic police

Hyderabad traffic police have launched a special drive to inspect private buses operating from the city, with a renewed focus on passenger safety, vehicle fitness, and pending challans. In an hour-long inspection held on Friday night, officers checked about 150 to 200 buses and collected nearly ₹1 lakh pending fines.

ACP Traffic (West Zone) K. Hariprasad said that such inspections will now be conducted regularly at major departure points like Maitrivanam, where several private operators begin inter-city bus services. “We are ensuring that double drivers are present for long-distance routes and stopping those that fail to comply. We are also verifying the mechanical fitness of the vehicles and ensuring that emergency tools such as hammers and exits are in working condition,” he said.

Mr. Hariprasad added that drivers and conductors must take a more active role in passenger safety, similar to the practice followed by airlines. “Like in flights, bus operators must also educate passengers about emergency doors and the use of hammers to break glass in case of a fire or collision. Awareness can make all the difference in saving lives,” he said.

Vehicles found without valid fitness certificates are being reported to the Regional Transport Office for further action. The officer noted that the initiative follows recent incidents involving private buses, including the Kurnool highway accident, and that such surprise checks will continue to enforce higher safety standards and accountability among private operators.