Private bus operators told to follow safety norms

In the backdrop of accidents taking place in several parts of the State, Vizianagaram Deputy Transport Commissioner D. Mani Kumar on Thursday has urged private bus managements to strictly adhere to safety norms.

Speaking to The Hindu, he said that the department has been conducting inspections periodically on the 27 private buses which operate from Vizianagaram to various other destinations.

He said: “A few buses were found violating safety norms, with sleeper berths set up at the emergency exits, while many buses lacked fire extinguishers and alarms. For those violating the norms, we have imposed fines and cautioned them that the department would seize their vehicles if the seating arrangement were not done in accordance to safety norms. "

Mr. Mani Kumar further added that inspections would also extend to college and school buses. Presently, random fitness tests are being conducted to ensure the safety of students.