What happened?
Being a frequent Volvo bus traveler, I was shocked to read about the horrific accidents that recently happened near Bangalore. Two Volvo buses caught fire and innocent lives were lost. Without going into too much detail of the incidents, I would like to speculate about why it happened and whether lives could have been saved.
Actual details in following links
Who was responsible?
From preliminary reports, its not clear whether it was a mechanical failure or human error. Volvo also seems to be in the loop to provide any technical help. However, lives once lost are no more with their families so this exercise might even be futile for their families. If not Volvo then did the driver overspeed? True, the buses are powerful than regular buses and drivers need special training before handling them. Unfortunately, to cut costs safety becomes optional in India, sadly. Bus operators carry unsafe cargo, have just a single driver for long haul trips, don't place fire extinguishers in buses and other tricks to make more money.
What can be done?
The government already has institutions like RTO to inspect vehicles and issue road worthiness certificates. However, we all know better how to get things done otherwise, right? RTO is a den of the corrupt and greasing palms culture. (I have first hand accounts of officers being bribed in Indiranagar RTO for providing license or passing students in the exam.) Tour operators should keep safety a primary concern and not cut corners.
Passengers responsibility
I traveled few days back in a Volvo and I made sure I checked the fire extinguisher hear the bus door entrance, the location of the emergency exits (there are 4 exits), whether hammer is present to break glass if the need arises and the sun roof as well. If you travel, its your life. So you should be prepared and have options ready.
1 comment:
National travels information and more details.
Post a Comment