Sleeper Bus Inspection Reveals Shocking Safety Violations After Fatal Accident
Lucknow: A detailed technical inspection of the sleeper bus involved in a recent fatal accident on the Purvanchal Expressway has exposed severe and alarming safety violations. The inspection, conducted by regional inspector Vishnu Kumar, uncovered unauthorised modifications that drastically increased passenger capacity beyond legal limits.
Unauthorised Modifications and Overcrowding
The preliminary report flagged that the bus, originally approved for 16 sleeper berths on paper, had been illegally modified to accommodate as many as 43 passengers. This was achieved by reducing the size of seats to install additional units, leading to severe overcrowding and restricted aisle space. Shockingly, extra seats were also installed near door areas, compromising safe entry and exit for passengers.
Compromised Safety Systems
The inspection revealed that the emergency exit system was either non-functional or did not meet prescribed safety standards. This critical lapse could have hampered evacuation efforts during the accident, putting lives at greater risk. Officials noted that such modifications disturbed the vehicle's load balance, increasing instability and adversely impacting braking and handling, especially at high speeds on expressways.
Deliberate Tampering Suspected
Authorities suspect deliberate tampering with approved design specifications to maximise revenue, in clear violation of transport and fitness norms. The modifications were not only illegal but also posed significant dangers to passenger safety. Further action is currently underway to address these violations and hold responsible parties accountable.
Comprehensive Vehicle Assessment
The technical inspection covered multiple critical components of the vehicle to ensure a thorough evaluation:
- Braking System: Officials assessed brake efficiency, checked for fluid leakage, worn-out brake pads or liners, and the proper functioning of the handbrake, which was found to be worn out and in need of an upgrade.
- Steering Mechanism: The steering was examined for excessive free play, along with the condition of joints and linkages to ensure proper control.
- Tyres and Wheels: Inspections focused on signs of bursts, blowouts, insufficient tread depth, or structural damage that could compromise safety.
- Structural Integrity: Authorities evaluated the chassis frame, body condition, door latches, and hinges to ensure the vehicle's overall stability and safety.
Experts emphasised that such unauthorised modifications not only violate regulations but also create hazardous conditions that can lead to catastrophic accidents. The findings underscore the urgent need for stricter enforcement of transport safety norms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
