Following directives from the National Human Rights Commission and in the wake of recent fire accidents, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy held an emergency meeting with Transport Department officials, private bus owners, and bus body builders. Prioritizing passenger safety, the Minister has issued a strict order to implement 8 key regulations.

8 Mandatory Rules for Sleeper Buses:

Removal of Door Behind Driver: The additional doors located behind the driver's seat in sleeper buses must be removed.

Removal of Sliders: Sliders (partitions or curtain-like barriers) installed in sleeper berths must be taken out.

Fire Detection System: A system to detect fires must be installed within one month.

Fire Extinguishers: It is mandatory to carry a fire extinguisher weighing at least 10 kg in every bus.

Ban on Chassis Extension: A strict ban has been placed on the unauthorized extension of the bus chassis.

Official Certification: Obtaining a safety certificate from an approved testing agency is now mandatory.

Strict Fitness Certificate (FC): A Fitness Certificate will be issued only if the vehicle meets 100% of the passenger safety standards.

Pre-registration Verification: Registration will be processed only after verifying the validity and credentials of the bus body-building unit.

Additional Instructions for Passenger Safety:

Emergency Exits: Seats near emergency doors should be allocated to youth or middle-aged passengers so they can assist others during an emergency. Hammers must be provided to break window glass, and a step arrangement must be available to help passengers climb down from the emergency exit. In the event of a fire, drivers must immediately alert passengers using an alarm and provide information on safety procedures.

The Minister warned that strict action will be taken against private bus owners and body-building companies that fail to comply with these rules.