MillenniumPost
Delhi

DTC measures to prevent road mishaps have paid off, 50% fall in fatal accidents

The fatal accidents caused by Delhi Transport Corporation’s (DTC),  buses have seen a drastic fall. The figures have gone down to 42 in 2012 till November, in comparison with 83 in 2011. In 2009, number of deaths caused by DTC buses were 64.

‘In order to reduce accidents which are caused by the DTC buses, the corporation had initiated a series of steps, such as observing safety week, and ensuring the regular maintenance of buses. The main thrust of the drive was to ensure punctual operation of the DTC buses, where safe driving, proper halting of the bus,’ said Sharat Kumar, spokesperson, DTC.

The cases of irregularities on the part of crew like over speeding, rash and negligent driving, non stoppage of buses on bus stops also breaking traffic norms and over taking on the busy roads were dealt with seriously.

‘Driving low floor buses with open gates, improper parking on the roads and talking on mobile phones and listening to music player while driving the bus were the main reasons of the accidents,’ said a DTC official.

‘A special training is being imparted to the DTC drivers. Their skills are also tested from time to time,’ said Kumar.

Depot managers also hold counselling classes for drivers in depots on a daily basis and take disciplinary action against the drivers who are found violating the traffic rules. To sharpen the driving skills, DTC is also organising refresher courses for the drivers.

‘Earlier, there was only one training school in Nand Nagri depot, but now training facilities have been increased by setting up six other centres at regional level, at Dwarka Sector-8 depot, Subhash Place depot, Sarojini Nagar depot, Peera Garhi depot, Tehkhand depot and Rohini Sector - 4 depot,’ said Kumar. The training is provided by experts and qualified instructors.

Technology is also used to keep a tab on speed limit of the DTC buses. ‘DTC has installed GPS in its low-floor buses, so the vehicles can be monitored from the depot itself. All depot managers have been instructed to personally monitor the speed of each bus and take actions against violators,’ said a DTC official. This exercise was initiated in order to make the DTC bus service more reliable, punctual and commuter friendly.
Next Story
Share it