Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, June 28
A day after a private bus veered off the road and crashed into a wall near the lift area in Shimla, injuring at least three people, the transport department in Himachal Pradesh rushed into action—setting up checkpoints, inspecting documents, and promising reforms. But for many locals, the question remains the same, why does it always take a crisis to shake the authorities out of slumber? On Friday morning, a team from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) set up a surprise checkpoint at Tollend, a few kilometres from the crash site. Dozens of private buses were stopped. Inspectors checked for fitness certificates, insurance, pollution clearance, and driver credentials. Several were penalised on the spot for missing documents.
RTO Shimla Anil Sharma said that all private buses plying within the city are being examined for roadworthiness. “Such incidents highlight the need to ensure not only the mechanical fitness of buses but also that drivers are not overworked,” he said, adding that driver fatigue is a growing concern. He confirmed that surprise checks would continue in the coming weeks. Additionally, an eye-check-up camp for drivers will be organised within the next ten days. The department is also enforcing rules mandating uniforms for drivers and conductors, along with strict adherence to ticket issuance protocols.
“We want passengers in Shimla to feel safe while travelling. Safety cannot be compromised,” Sharma added.
