The Andhra Pradesh government is now planning to ban private sleeper buses due to the increasing number of serious accidents involving these vehicles. The authorities are ready to take this important decision for the sake of people’s lives. Here’s everything you need to know about this.
Andhra Pradesh Govt Plans Ban On Private Sleeper Buses
Private sleeper buses might soon be banned in Andhra Pradesh. The government is ready to take this step because there have been serious accidents recently involving such vehicles. According to Hindustan Times, a cabinet sub-committee has been formed to review measures to prevent bus accidents in the state. State Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy and Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha were present too.
Reportedly, most private sleeper buses currently in service are converted vehicles and not factory-built models. They are not up to structural and safety standards. Plus, they also lack adequate emergency exits and have poor ventilation, which increases the risk of fire. In the first phase, the state government is planning to ban non-factory-built sleeper buses because, according to them, these are unsafe for citizens.
Officials Announce New Rules
According to a report by South First, officials are not hesitant to take this stringent decision. Reportedly, there have been four major accidents in six months that have killed around 45 people. The crashes in Kurnool and Markapuram showed how collisions can lead to fires and trap passengers inside buses.
According to Hindustan Times, officials have also announced other major rules. All private buses operating on routes longer than 300 kilometres will now be required to have two drivers. There will also be a dedicated seat for the off-duty driver to rest, especially during overnight journeys. Private bus operators have also been directed to install two cameras in every bus to monitor driver alertness and assess the movement of vehicles coming from the opposite direction.
Also Read: After 12 Years Of Delay, Amaravati Is Officially The Sole Capital Of Andhra Pradesh
What do you think of this decision by the Andhra Pradesh government?
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FAQs
What is a sleeper bus?
A sleeper bus is a bus designed for long-distance or overnight travel. They are equipped with beds or berths instead of standard seats.