Delhi Issues Fresh Bus Safety Order
The Delhi government has tightened safety rules for buses operating in the capital following the alleged sexual assault of a teenage girl inside a moving bus in Delhi-NCR.
The Transport Department has directed all buses operating in Delhi, including interstate buses, to strictly comply with passenger safety and operational requirements. The new directions focus on visibility inside buses, emergency systems, authorised stopping points and verification of bus staff.
Curtains and Window Films Banned
One of the most notable changes is the prohibition of curtains and films covering bus windows.
The move is aimed at ensuring that activities inside buses remain visible from outside. The investigation into the recent incident reportedly found that the bus involved had heavy curtains covering its windows, raising concerns about the lack of visibility.
Operators have also been instructed to maintain adequate interior lighting while buses are moving, allowing people outside to see into the passenger compartment.
GPS and Panic Buttons Must Work
The government has reiterated that Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTDs) and panic buttons must remain functional at all times.
These systems are intended to provide authorities with the ability to track buses and respond quickly when passengers face an emergency.
The latest order effectively shifts attention from simply having these safety devices installed to ensuring that they are actually operational.
No Random or Unsafe Bus Stops
Bus operators have also been instructed to ensure that passenger boarding and dropping takes place only at designated or otherwise authorised locations.
Stopping at unsafe locations, particularly in the middle of roads or at intersections, has been prohibited.
During night hours or when buses are idle, operators have been directed to park vehicles only at authorised, secure and adequately lit locations.
Drivers and Staff Face Greater Scrutiny
The rules also cover drivers, conductors, attendants and other bus personnel.
Operators must ensure that drivers possess valid licences and required badges, while staff members must maintain appropriate conduct with passengers. Verification of personnel before deployment has also been emphasised.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating substances is strictly prohibited.
Violations Could Cost Operators Their Permits
The government has warned that violations of the directions could lead to penalties, vehicle detention or impounding, and suspension or cancellation of permits.
The measures apply broadly to buses operating in Delhi, making compliance an important responsibility for both local and interstate operators.
Will the New Rules Make Buses Safer?
The latest order addresses several vulnerabilities exposed by the recent incident, particularly the absence of visibility and functioning emergency systems.
However, enforcement will be crucial. Simply banning curtains or requiring GPS and panic buttons will have limited impact unless buses are regularly inspected and violations are acted upon.
For passengers, especially women and minors travelling alone, the effectiveness of these measures will ultimately depend on whether the new rules are consistently implemented across Delhi’s bus network.
Summary
Delhi has tightened safety rules for all buses operating in the capital, banning curtains and window films while requiring adequate interior lighting, functional GPS tracking devices and panic buttons. Buses must stop only at authorised locations and drivers and staff must be properly verified. Violations could result in penalties, vehicle impounding or permit cancellation.
