Bhubaneswar Mob Vandalizes Ama Buses Following Traffic Accident, Injuring Motorcyclist
In a distressing incident in Bhubaneswar, an angry mob vandalized three Ama Buses on Smart Janpath on Friday after one of the vehicles allegedly caused an accident, resulting in grievous injuries to a motorcycle rider. The arson did not lead to injuries among the passengers on the buses, but the event has reignited concerns over public transport safety in the city.
Details of the Accident and Ensuing Violence
According to eyewitness accounts, an Ama Bus traveling from Master Canteen collided with a biker near Sriya Square. The impact caused the biker to fall onto the road, sustaining serious injuries, and he was promptly transported to Capital Hospital for medical treatment. Following the collision, the driver and conductor of the bus fled the scene, which escalated tensions among onlookers.
An irate mob quickly gathered at the accident site, pelting stones at the involved bus and damaging two additional Ama Buses that were operating on the same route. This act of vandalism caused significant traffic congestion on the busy Janpath, prompting a swift response from local law enforcement to manage the escalating situation.
Police Response and Legal Actions
Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police Jagmohan Meena coordinated mob control measures at the site. The commissionerate police have registered two separate cases in connection with the incident: one focusing on the accident caused by the Ama Bus, and another addressing the damage inflicted on the buses, allegedly by criminal elements.
In a statement, DCP Meena emphasized, "We have registered two cases and initiated an investigation. We will analyze statements from witnesses and examine CCTV footage to ascertain the truth behind the incidents." He further warned that damaging public property will not be tolerated, underscoring the legal repercussions for such actions.
Crut's Condemnation and Safety Concerns
The Capital Region Urban Transport (Crut), which operates the Ama Buses, issued a statement on Friday condemning the attack on their vehicles and crew members. The organization highlighted that despite the initial accident involving the two-wheeler causing no injuries to bus passengers, miscreants resorted to vandalism, which seriously injured two bus captains and endangered others.
Crut stated, "Immediate police intervention ensured rescue, and complaints have been lodged." They are coordinating with the Capital police station to ensure strict legal action against those responsible and to prevent the recurrence of such unlawful acts. This incident is not isolated, as similar events have occurred in the past, raising alarms about the safety record of Ama Buses.
Historical Context and Recurring Issues
This recent vandalism follows a similar incident on January 3 at Rupali Square, where an Ama Bus crushed an autorickshaw driver to death. In that case, the auto rider was waiting for a signal when hit from behind by an e-bus, resulting in the death of driver Bishnu Patra and injuries to a passenger. That event also triggered mob fury and sparked debates about safe driving practices by Ama Bus drivers, particularly on city roads.
In response to the January 3 incident, the commerce and transport department implemented several measures, including the formation of a dedicated review committee to address safety concerns. Notably, Ama Buses, which were rebranded from Mo Bus, have been involved in over 50 accidents since their operations began in 2018. These accidents have claimed at least 22 lives, with 16 fatalities occurring in the past one and a half years, and have injured over 40 people, highlighting a persistent issue with public transport safety in Bhubaneswar.
The recurring nature of these incidents underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols and public awareness to prevent future tragedies and maintain order on the city's roads.
