Heightened vigil after ‘Ama Bus’ accidents in Bhubaneswar; High-level Committee formed

Following a series of accidents involving ‘Ama Bus’ services in Bhubaneswar, the Transport Department has stepped up vigilance and constituted a High-level Committee to strengthen monitoring and improve safety standards. A crucial meeting in this regard was held on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Transport Department Principal Secretary Usha Padhee.

The department announced the formation of a five-member high-level committee, which will regularly monitor the operation of ‘Ama Bus’ services, focus on improving management systems, and ensure enhanced passenger safety. The committee includes the Transport Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Traffic DCP, and a senior official from CRUT.

The Committee will meet once every 15 days to review key issues related to the functioning of Ama Bus services. In case of urgent matters, meetings may be convened at any time to ensure timely resolution of problems.

Several important decisions were also taken during the meeting. It was decided that only drivers who clear mandatory screening tests will be allowed to operate Ama Bus services. Additionally, e-challans will be issued if Ama Bus drivers violate traffic rules.

The Transport Department has further decided to introduce third-party screening tests for drivers. Drivers will be permitted to operate buses only after successfully passing these screening tests; those who fail will not be allowed to drive, Principal Secretary Usha Padhee informed.

In an effort to encourage responsible driving, the department also announced that drivers who demonstrate higher levels of sensitivity and discipline will be provided with incentives.

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Notably, an Ama Bus was involved in a fatal road accident at Rupali Square in Bhubaneswar two days ago, triggering serious concern over road safety and prompting the authorities to take immediate corrective measures.