From Mo Bus to Ama Bus: Addressing the Safety Issues in Bhubaneswar's Public Transport

Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar's public transportation system, notably the Ama Bus service operated by the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), has been a subject of concern due to a series of accidents in recent years. While the government has implemented various measures to address these issues, netizens and road safety experts have highlighted several factors contributing to the accidents.

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1. Speeding and Reckless Driving

One of the primary concerns raised by netizens is the speeding and reckless driving exhibited by some Ama Bus drivers. Despite the implementation of speed limits, instances of overspeeding have been reported, leading to accidents. A recent incident in Chandrasekharpur area, where a woman suffered serious injuries after being hit by a Mo Bus, prompted CRUT to revise the speed limits, allowing buses to travel at a maximum speed of 40 km/h in cities and 50 km/h on highways.

2. Inadequate Driver Training and Monitoring

Netizens have also pointed out the lack of adequate training and monitoring of bus drivers. Instances of drivers engaging in reckless driving and not adhering to safety protocols have been reported. The Orissa High Court directed CRUT to start routine breath analyzer tests for Mo Bus drivers to curb reckless driving. However, concerns remain about the consistency and effectiveness of these measures.

3. Poor Road Infrastructure and Traffic Management

The road infrastructure and traffic management in Bhubaneswar have been identified as contributing factors to the accidents. Narrow roads, lack of proper signage, and inadequate pedestrian facilities increase the risk of accidents. Netizens have highlighted areas where traffic congestion and poor road conditions exacerbate the situation, making it challenging for buses to operate safely.

4. Vehicle Maintenance and Safety Features

The maintenance of buses and the absence of advanced safety features have been raised as concerns. While CRUT has initiated the installation of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in the fleet, netizens question the adequacy of these measures. The AI-powered ADAS is expected to reduce accidents by detecting obstacles, enforcing speed limits, and applying emergency brakes automatically. However, the effectiveness of these systems in real-world conditions remains to be seen.

5. Public Perception and Trust

Public perception plays a crucial role in the success of public transportation systems. The recent accidents have eroded public trust in the Ama Bus service. Netizens have expressed concerns about the safety of traveling by bus, leading to a decline in ridership. Rebuilding public trust requires consistent safety measures, transparent communication, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Conclusion

The safety concerns surrounding Bhubaneswar's Ama Bus service are multifaceted, involving driver behavior, road infrastructure, vehicle maintenance, and public perception. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes stricter enforcement of traffic laws, enhanced driver training, improved road conditions, and the integration of advanced safety technologies. By taking these steps, CRUT can work towards ensuring the safety of passengers and restoring public confidence in the Ama Bus service.