Following a series of recent bus accidents and fire incidents, concerns are mounting over the safety of both government and private buses operating in Odisha and the neighbouring states. On October 24, twenty passengers were burnt alive in a private bus tragedy in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. 

On November 6, an Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) bus caught fire near Salur in Manyam district of Andhra Pradesh on the national highway. Fortunately, as the incident occurred early in the morning, all passengers escaped unhurt.

Safety Measures Under Scrutiny

The twin incidents have reignited debate about passenger safety and maintenance standards in bus services. At the Jeypore bus terminal, both government and private buses reportedly lack basic safety facilities such as fire extinguishers and first aid kits. 

One passenger said, “Non-AC buses are old and not properly maintained. In some buses, I have seen fire extinguishers but not first aid kits.” 

Government buses, operated by the State Transport Corporation, are said to be in poor condition, with many lacking proper safety arrangements. Even newly introduced buses, though equipped with fire extinguishers and first aid boxes, have raised concerns due to what passengers describe as negligent maintenance by departmental staff. 

Moreover, several government buses are allegedly operating without valid fitness certificates.

Private Buses Also Lack Standards

At Jeypore’s private bus stand, many vehicles reportedly operate without essential safety equipment. Despite violating safety regulations, private bus owners continue operations unchecked, with the district transport department accused of inaction, as sources said.

Tirupati Panigrahi, a bus owner from Jeypore, said, “The administration should be stricter about this. We do not know how some buses get their fitness approved. Even buses without proper maintenance or permits are continuing operations, which we strongly condemn.”

Administration Promises Action

Koraput Collector and District Magistrate Manoj Satyawan Mahajan said, “We will conduct a thorough investigation. Action will be taken based on the issues identified, whether mechanical or manual. We will review the inquiry once again." 

Also Read: One dead, over 15 injured as Bargarh-Berhampur bus overturns on Kalinga ghat

Speaking about the recent fire mishaps, Mahajan said, "...During the recent accident, the bus did have fire extinguisher, but they just failed to contain the flames.”