Working Panic Buttons, No Curtains: Delhi Tightens Bus Rules After Minor's Gang-Rape

Panic buttons and vehicle tracking devices on buses operating in Delhi will now have to remain functional at all times. Curtains and unauthorised films on bus windows have also been banned under a fresh set of safety directions issued by the Delhi government on Tuesday.

The directions come after the alleged gangrape of a minor inside a moving sleeper bus. The incident has put the spotlight on women safety and the enforcement of safeguards on buses operating in and around the national capital.

The bus in which the minor was gangraped allegedly by the driver and the conductor had curtains drawn over its windows obstructing the view. It also did not seem to have a functional CCTV system - as required by law after the 2012 Nirbhaya gangrape in the city.

The crime, which brought back memories of the 2012 gang-rape and murder in Delhi known as the Nirbhaya case, took place on the night of August 4. After committing the crime, the conductor and driver abandoned the girl near Kashmere Gate, more than 40 kilometres from Greater Noida where she boarded the bus, police said.

The Transport Department's new directions apply to all bus operators in Delhi, including buses from other states. Operators have been told to ensure that mandatory safety equipment and systems are not just installed but remain operational.

The Transport Department has directed bus operators to ensure that Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTDs) and panic buttons remain functional and operational at all times. Panic buttons must also be easily accessible to passengers.

Every bus must carry serviceable fire extinguishers and first-aid kits. Operators have also been directed to ensure that buses are parked during night or idle hours only at authorised, secure and adequately lit locations.

Transport Minister Dr Pankaj Kumar Singh said: "Passenger safety is non-negotiable. Every bus operating in Delhi must meet prescribed safety and operational standards, with essential systems and equipment remaining functional at all times.

We are committed to making public transport safer and more reliable for every commuter." Bus operators have been told that buses must not be fitted with curtains or unauthorised films on windows. The prescribed transparency requirements for windshields, rear windows and side windows must be maintained.

Drunk Driving, Staff Verification Under Scanner Drivers and other bus staff have been directed to maintain proper and courteous conduct with passengers. Driving under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicating substance is strictly prohibited.

Drivers must possess valid driving licences, uniforms and PSV badges wherever applicable. Conductors must carry valid conductor licences, uniforms and PSV badges.