Bus accidents claimed 1,971 lives in last 5 years in Karnataka

The main reasons for bus accidents, according to Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, were speeding and ferrying more passengers than the stipulated capacity.

In the five years from 2018 to 2022, a total of 1,971 persons lost their lives in bus accidents across Karnataka, involving both private and government-run buses.

In the same period, 7,675 bus accidents were reported in Karnataka in which 14,847 persons were injured, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy informed the legislative Council in response to a question on bus accidents in the State.

* Source: Transport Department

The government has taken note of the increase in bus-related accidents.

The main reasons for bus accidents, according to Mr Reddy, were speeding and ferrying more passengers than the stipulated capacity.

He told The Hindu, “Recently, I issued an instructions to all the Road Transport Corporations (RTCs) to follow passenger safety norms, and close bus doors before the bus moves. Small steps like this will gradually decrease the number of accidents related to buses. We are aiming to reduce accidents involving buses by creating awareness.”

Following directions by the Minister, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) issued a circular to all depots instructing bus crew to follow door safety precautions for passengers’ safety and close the doors of the bus before the vehicle moves.