Regional News

Udupi DC Mandates Doors on All Buses, Stresses Safety

By Editor

Posted on November 11, 2025

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Udupi DC Mandates Doors on All Buses, Stresses Safety

Udupi : The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Swaroopa T K has issued a crucial directive: both private and government buses must mandatorily install doors to ensure the safety of passengers. This instruction was given during the District Regional Transport Authority (RTA) meeting held at the DC’s office on Monday (November 11).

Action Against Violations and Unhealthy Competition

The DC expressed concern over several private buses operating despite having expired fitness certificates and failing to adhere to safety norms, instructing officials to take appropriate action against such violations. Furthermore, she emphasized that buses are meant to serve the public and should avoid unhealthy competition for profit. She added that route disagreements between operators must be resolved internally to prevent delays caused by court cases, which deprive the public of essential services.

Police Enforcement and Public Grievances

Superintendent of Police (SP) Hariram Shankar reported that 14,562 cases have been registered over the past three years. Following a recent tragic incident where a student fell from a bus, the police inspected all buses, stopped overloaded vehicles, and imposed fines. The SP also warned of strict legal action if private buses obstruct government buses or cause inconvenience for profit. Students from Maravanthe to Padukone brought up the issue of lacking bus service, forcing them to walk two kilometres daily, to which the DC assured that services would commence shortly.

Call for Route Surveys and Public Complaints

The DC instructed KSRTC, private operators, and the RTO to jointly conduct a route survey to identify areas, particularly rural ones, that require additional bus services. The SP advised the public to submit written complaints to the RTO if any permitted route lacks bus services or if buses fail to follow safety and operational regulations, emphasizing the aim of ensuring efficient and quality public service.