Andhra Pradesh Government Weighs Phasing Out Sleeper Buses for Enhanced Safety
In a significant move aimed at bolstering passenger safety, the Andhra Pradesh government is actively considering the implementation of recommendations from the Administrative Staff College of India (ASCI) to phase out sleeper buses across the state. This proposal comes in the wake of tragic bus accidents, including the recent Markapuram incident that claimed 13 lives, prompting a thorough review of safety measures in public transport.
ASCI Report Advocates for Comprehensive Ban and Transition
The ASCI, tasked with investigating sleeper bus operations following the earlier Kurnool bus tragedy, has submitted a detailed report to the state government. The report outlines a series of stringent measures designed to curb accidents involving sleeper buses, which have been identified as a safety concern.
Key recommendations from the ASCI include:- Issuing a joint circular by both central and state governments to ban sleeper buses after consultations with manufacturers.
- Preventing bus manufacturers from producing new sleeper buses or modifying existing ones into sleeper configurations.
- Setting deadlines for bus operators to convert existing sleeper buses into seater buses to improve safety standards.
- Implementing automated testing for all private buses to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
- A complete removal of sleeper buses from operation within the next 22 months through a phased approach.
Government Response and Ongoing Consultations
Andhra Pradesh Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy has emphasized the government's commitment to passenger safety, stating that the proposal to ban sleeper buses is under active consideration. "Passengers' safety is paramount for the government. We are actively considering the proposal to ban the sleeper buses and also holding consultations with the Centre in this regard," Reddy remarked, addressing the recent spate of bus mishaps in the state.
In a related development, the AP transport department has already taken preliminary steps by writing to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways of India. The department has requested that contract carriages under the All India Tourist Permit (AITP) system not be granted, reflecting a proactive stance on regulatory measures.
Implications for Transport Sector and Future Outlook
If implemented, these recommendations could mark a transformative shift in Andhra Pradesh's public transport landscape. The phased scrapping of sleeper buses and the halt on their manufacturing would necessitate significant adjustments for bus operators and manufacturers alike. The focus on converting sleeper buses to seater configurations aims to enhance structural integrity and reduce accident risks, aligning with broader national safety goals.
As the government deliberates on these measures, stakeholders in the transport industry are closely monitoring developments. The outcome of consultations with the central government and bus manufacturers will be crucial in shaping the final policy, which seeks to balance safety imperatives with practical implementation challenges over the proposed 22-month timeline.
