Rajasthan has initiated a month-long campaign across the state to inspect both private and government buses in response to recent road accidents and concerns regarding lax enforcement of safety regulations. The authorities have emphasized that buses found breaching safety or transport rules will face immediate consequences, including fines and confiscation.
Under the oversight of the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority (RSLSA), the campaign kicked off with surprise inspections led by Secretaries (Judges) of the District Legal Services Authorities in 12 major cities, including Jaipur, in collaboration with transport department officials. The initial phase of the drive will concentrate on scrutinizing long-distance luxury buses.
In light of a recent bus accident in Dausa district and in alignment with Supreme Court directives related to the Phalodi road accident case, it has been decided that buses failing to comply with safety or transport standards will be promptly penalized, including fines and seizure. RSLSA Member Secretary Hariom Attri, in a video conference with District Legal Services Authorities, highlighted the gravity of recent road safety incidents, stressing the importance of the campaign initiated under the guidance of RSLSA Executive Chairman and Acting Chief Justice of the Rajasthan High Court, Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma.
Attri instructed officials to take immediate action by impounding buses operating in violation of regulations and to educate passengers about their legal rights. Additionally, eligible victims are being assisted in filing claims for compensation before the Permanent Lok Adalat. During discussions, Judicial Officer Naveen Kilaniya raised concerns about buses registered in Nagaland and neighboring states operating in Rajasthan, a matter already reported to the Special Operations Group (SOG).
In response to the issue, Attri warned of further action if the SOG’s response is deemed inadequate, directing district authority secretaries to broaden inspections in the upcoming phase of the campaign to encompass both private and public transport buses found flouting prescribed norms.
