Intensified enforcement measures to ensure passenger safety, says Minister for Transport

In the wake of the recent bus fire incident near Markapuram that claimed 14 lives, Andhra Pradesh Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy on Saturday (March 28) said the government has intensified enforcement measures across the State to prevent similar tragedies and strengthen passenger safety.

The Minister said the Transport department has undertaken large-scale inspections of buses as part of a special safety drive launched after the incident. A total of 1,036 buses were inspected State-wide, during which 236 buses found operating without proper documentation were booked and penalised. He said these inspections were carried out at 16 strategic points, including toll plazas and check-posts across the State.

Mr. Ramprasad Reddy said the government is taking stringent and sustained measures to curb violations that could lead to accidents. He announced that special enforcement drives will now be conducted regularly to ensure strict compliance with safety norms by bus operators and warned of stringent action against those violating safety regulations, including operating vehicles without valid permits, fitness certificates or safety equipment.

Emphasising the government’s commitment to public safety, the Minister urged all transport operators to strictly adhere to safety rules and maintain vehicles in roadworthy condition to prevent mishaps.