October 26, 2025

DEADLY BUS FIRES BRING PASSENGER SAFETY TO THE FRONT SEAT! Two horrifying bus fires in India — one in Andhra Pradesh on Friday and another in Rajasthan on October 14 — have shocked the nation, claiming over 40 precious lives. These tragedies have put the spotlight back on how safe our buses really are. Officials tell us that the government has already set many rules for bus builders to follow. In 2017, the Bus Body Code came into play, with clear instructions on door sizes and gangway (the aisle) width. But waiting for emergencies? From April 2019, automatic fire alarm systems must be installed in buses. This means early warning if fire strikes! But wait, there's more! The updated rules for sleeper buses are super strict. They require six emergency exits made of breakable glass—because every second counts when escape is needed. And here’s the big news: from September 2025, every bus builder MUST follow this code. No excuses! Digging into the recent Rajasthan fire, a government official revealed something alarming: the bus involved was modified just a few days before the fire. This points to a big question—who checks these buses properly? The official said, “Responsibility lies with local transport department officials who check buses.” This highlights the role of local authorities in bus safety. Older buses? Sadly, buses built before 2019 like the one in Kurnool are not covered by these new rules. Former Joint Transport Commissioner of Delhi, Anil Chhikara, warns about the system that allows buses to get fitness certificates just by sending photos. He says, “This must stop.” Photographic checks can't replace real, thorough inspections! As India mourns the lives lost on these buses, the government is racing against time to make every journey safer. With strict safety codes coming soon, hopes are high that such fiery tragedies will take a back seat. After all, road trips should be about memories, not mistakes!

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Tags: Bus fire safety, Andhra bus fire, Rajasthan bus fire, Bus body code, Passenger safety, Transport regulations,