In response to growing concerns over bus safety, the central government has directed states to ensure full compliance with safety requirements before registering any new buses. This directive comes as a response to a series of recent bus fire incidents and accidents that have highlighted the critical need for stricter enforcement of existing regulations. The government aims to create a safer transportation environment for passengers and reduce the number of road accidents involving buses.
The core issue lies not with the safety standards themselves, which align with global benchmarks, but with their inconsistent enforcement. Industry leaders have pointed out that while certified manufacturers generally adhere to the norms, smaller operators and body builders often overlook compliance due to cost considerations or oversight gaps. This non-compliance poses substantial risks to passenger safety and undermines the overall integrity of the bus transportation system.
To address these challenges, the government is emphasizing the need for stronger periodic audits, increased accountability during the registration process, and better-trained enforcement authorities. A mandatory checklist of safety features will be issued to Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), which they must verify while renewing registration and fitness certificates. This checklist will include essential provisions such as a minimum passageway width, emergency doors, fire-resistant materials, fire extinguishers, and fire detection and suppression systems.
In addition to stricter enforcement, the government is also focusing on incorporating advanced safety technologies in buses. Starting April 2026, all newly manufactured passenger vehicles with a capacity of more than eight people, including buses and trucks, will be required to have Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These systems include Automatic Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Driver Drowsiness and Attention Warning System (DDAWS), and Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS). The same safety standards will apply to existing vehicle models starting October 2026.
The AEBS will detect potential frontal collisions and automatically apply the brakes if the driver fails to react promptly. The DDAWS will monitor the driver's alertness and issue warnings if signs of drowsiness or inattention are detected. The LDWS will alert the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane without the turn signal being used. Furthermore, buses and trucks will also be required to install a blind spot detection system to prevent collisions with pedestrians and cyclists.
The government's push for enhanced bus safety also includes measures to improve fire safety. Electrical short circuits, unauthorized modifications, and poor maintenance have been identified as common causes of bus fires. To mitigate these risks, the government is emphasizing the importance of using certified fire-retardant materials and properly installed fire suppression systems.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the government's efforts to improve bus safety and have called for a unified National Bus Safety Code to harmonize regulations and ensure consistent enforcement across all states. They have also stressed the importance of regular maintenance, preventing overloading, using two drivers for longer routes, and providing safety training for drivers and passengers.
By implementing these measures, the government aims to create a safer and more reliable bus transportation system in India, protecting the lives of passengers and reducing the number of accidents on the roads.
