The recent bus fire tragedy in Greater Noida has highlighted that the vehicle involved had nine pending challans in Delhi. According to DCP Traffic (Central Range) K Ramesh, these violations were primarily due to overspeeding and improper parking. The bus’s operational permit is valid until October 26, which raises questions about compliance with safety regulations.

DCP Ramesh emphasised that regular meetings are held with bus operators to remind them of their responsibilities concerning permits and to address any regulatory infractions. He mentioned that strict actions are enforced against illegal parking and overloading, underlining the traffic department’s commitment to ensuring vehicle compliance.

“In our continuous checks, we verify that buses possess essential emergency equipment,” he stated. He noted that while the bus has an active permit, it will be monitored closely due to its age. The inspections are aimed at ensuring the safety of passengers at all times.

Implications of Pending Traffic Challans

In response to queries about the pending traffic violations, DCP Ramesh explained that current regulations do not allow for the seizing of vehicles solely due to unpaid fines. However, he mentioned that legislative changes are being considered to address this issue and that action is being initiated against those with outstanding challans.

“Currently, there is no provision to impound a vehicle solely for non-payment of challans; however, amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR) are underway that might change this situation,” he clarified. He indicated that defaulters could face restrictions, making it challenging to renew insurance, among other consequences.

“The authorities do act in cases where drivers operate without valid permits or lack the necessary driving experience,” DCP Ramesh noted, highlighting that such situations are treated as serious violations, warranting immediate action.

Tragic Outcome and Government Response

The bus fire incident led to the deaths of nine passengers on the Yamuna Expressway near Jewar late on September 23. Reports indicate that the bus was en route from Kashmiri Gate in New Delhi to Mahoba when the fire erupted around 11.30 pm at the 33-kilometre marker. Approximately 30 to 35 passengers were aboard, and many were trapped due to the rapid spread of the fire.

Witnesses reported that some passengers detected a burning odour coming from the driver’s cabin prior to the fire. When alerted, the driver and conductor allegedly failed to stop the bus immediately, and the situation escalated as they continued smoking in the cabin.

In light of the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the families of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for those injured. The Prime Minister expressed his sorrow over the tragic incident and conveyed condolences to the affected families, stating, “I am distressed to hear about the loss of lives due to a fire tragedy.” Additionally, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed his sympathies and announced similar compensation for the victims’ families.

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