Outside owners registering buses in Odisha: Transport Commissioner directed to submit report by November 15

In the wake of recent tragic bus accident in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, the Odisha Transport Department has expressed serious concern over the issue of vehicles registered in the State but operating in neighbouring Andhra, official sources said on Tuesday.

Also Read: Kurnool bus tragedy: Vehicle was registered in Odisha, probe launched

Acting on the matter, the department has directed the State Transport Commissioner to conduct a detailed probe and submit a comprehensive report. The move aims to ensure stricter compliance with vehicle registration norms and enhance passenger safety. The Commissioner is to submit an action-taken report (ATR) by November 15.

“Some bus owners of the neighbouring states are registering their buses in Odisha because of lower fees here. The Transport Commissioner is to examine the matter and submit a report,” a notification issued in this regard mentioned.

The department has also released a new set of safety guidelines for the bus operators, instructing them to prioritise passenger security and strictly adhere to transport rules.

Officials have advised organising awareness camps for bus drivers, conductors, and owners to promote responsible driving and preventive maintenance. In addition, all passenger buses are to undergo regular fire safety inspections to avoid any recurrence of such tragedies.

This directive underscores the State government’s renewed focus on road and passenger safety, following a series of inter-state bus mishaps that have raised public concern across Odisha.

Notably, provision of Fire Detection Alarm System (FDAS) and Fire Detection Suppression System (FDSS) has been made mandatory in buses w.e.f October 1, 2025. It should be included in the Permit condition for such vehicles.

Special enforcement drives to be conducted during the observance of Zero Fatality Fortnight on Fire Safety in buses as per the provisions of MV Act/Rule.