Sun Nov 09 14:09:40 UTC 2025: Summary:
Following a fatal bus fire in Kurnool, the Karnataka Transport Department conducted a safety enforcement operation targeting private buses in Bengaluru. The operation, lasting from October 24th to November 5th, resulted in the seizure of 102 buses and the collection of ₹1 crore in penalties. Inspections focused on fire safety measures, emergency exits, permit compliance, and road tax regulations. The department is also auditing its own buses and ensuring fire detection systems are functional and crew members are trained for fire emergencies. The operation will continue until full compliance is achieved.
News Article:
Bengaluru Buses Targeted in Safety Crackdown After Kurnool Tragedy
Bengaluru, November 9, 2025 – The Karnataka Transport Department has intensified safety checks on private buses operating in Bengaluru following a deadly bus fire in Kurnool. A recent enforcement drive, conducted between October 24th and November 5th, saw 102 buses seized for safety violations, leading to the collection of ₹1 crore in penalties.
Enforcement teams focused on major entry and exit points like Attibele and Devanahalli, inspecting buses for working fire extinguishers, functional emergency exits, valid permits, and adherence to road tax regulations. According to officials, many private operators were found illegally operating stage carriage services under tourist permits.
“The inspection has been carried out to ensure that all buses plying on the roads are equipped with proper fire safety measures and functional emergency exits,” said a senior transport official. “We will continue these checks to make sure operators strictly follow safety norms.”
Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy had ordered a statewide safety audit covering both government and private buses after the Kurnool incident. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is also conducting its own safety audit, ensuring fire detection and suppression systems are functional and that crew members are properly trained to respond to fire emergencies. KSRTC is also mandating all night-service buses to carry two five-litre fire extinguishers.
The transport department has stated that the enforcement operations will continue until full compliance is achieved across all bus operators, prioritizing passenger safety above all else.
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