Bhubaneswar: In a move to strengthen passenger safety and improve service standards, the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) has stepped up safety measures for Ama Bus operations, focusing on vehicle fitness, driver accountability and strict enforcement of safety protocols. The transport agency convened a review meeting with bus operators under the chairmanship of Managing Director Mohammed Sadique Alam to assess existing arrangements and identify areas requiring improvement.
The meeting stressed regular vehicle maintenance, periodic safety audits and mechanical fitness inspections to ensure that all buses remain roadworthy. It also highlighted the need for regular training of bus captains, adherence to speed limits and courteous behaviour towards passengers. As part of its zero-tolerance approach to safety violations, CRUT has made pre-duty breathalyser tests mandatory for all bus captains to prevent driving under the influence of alcohol. The agency said strict action had already been initiated against those found violating prescribed safety norms.
Special inspection teams have also been deployed to monitor bus operations and ensure compliance with safety standards. Addressing the operators, Alam directed them to strictly enforce all safety protocols, ensure mandatory breathalyser tests and promote responsible driving practices. He cautioned that any negligence or compromise on passenger safety would invite stringent action. The meeting also discussed the formulation of a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) covering vehicle maintenance, daily safe ty inspections, driver training and operational practices. The proposed SOP is expected to introduce uniform safety and service standards across the Ama Bus network.