Karnataka Transport Corporation Takes Swift Action Against Negligent Driver
The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has taken decisive action by suspending a bus driver after a viral video surfaced showing him allegedly watching social media content while operating the vehicle. This incident, which occurred on a bus traveling the Malavalli-Mysuru route, has raised serious concerns about passenger safety and professional conduct.
Viral Footage Leads to Immediate Suspension
The controversy began when footage circulated widely on social media platforms, depicting the driver, identified as Mahesh, seemingly engrossed in his mobile phone instead of focusing on the road. The video quickly gained traction, prompting immediate investigation by KSRTC authorities.
Sharan Basavaraju, Divisional Controller of KSRTC's Mandya division, confirmed the suspension, stating that the video provided prima facie evidence of misconduct. "Given the evidence available, we did not wait for the completion of a detailed inquiry," Basavaraju told media outlets. "The driver was placed under pre-inquiry suspension for violating safety norms and putting passengers' lives at risk."
Zero Tolerance for Safety Violations
KSRTC officials emphasized their strict policy regarding mobile phone usage by drivers. "There is absolutely no relaxation for drivers when it comes to using mobile phones while driving," an official statement noted. "Safety of passengers is paramount, and such irresponsible behavior will not be tolerated under any circumstances."
While conductors may have limited flexibility regarding phone usage during certain operational phases, drivers face complete prohibition from engaging with mobile devices while operating vehicles. This distinction underscores the critical responsibility placed on drivers for passenger safety.
Investigation and Broader Implications
Although the exact date of the incident remains unclear, KSRTC authorities acted swiftly based on the available visual evidence. "Though we don't know the exact date of the incident, based on the videos that are available, we took the decision," Basavaraju explained.
The suspension serves multiple purposes:
- Immediate removal of a potential safety hazard
- Initiation of proper disciplinary proceedings
- Sending a strong message to other KSRTC personnel about consequences for safety violations
"A detailed investigation will be conducted," Basavaraju added, "but the video clearly shows the driver watching something on his phone. Hence, pending inquiry, he was suspended." This action demonstrates KSRTC's commitment to maintaining high safety standards across its extensive transport network.
Passenger Safety as Top Priority
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges transport authorities face in ensuring driver compliance with safety protocols. With mobile devices becoming increasingly pervasive, transportation corporations must reinforce regulations through both education and enforcement.
KSRTC's prompt response to the viral video reflects their operational philosophy that passenger safety cannot be compromised. The corporation maintains that such disciplinary measures are essential not only for addressing individual violations but also for reinforcing a culture of responsibility throughout the organization.
