Delhi Bus Safety Rules: GPS, Panic Buttons Mandatory After Greater Noida Sexual Assault Case

The Delhi government has reiterated strict safety norms for buses operating in the national capital following the alleged sexual assault of a 16-year-old girl on a moving bus between Greater Noida and Delhi. The Transport Department has directed bus operators to ensure that essential safety measures, including functional GPS tracking devices and panic buttons, are in place.

The State Transport Authority (STA), in an order issued on August 31, directed all bus operators, including those from other states operating in Delhi, to comply with passenger safety and operational requirements.

GPS tracking, panic buttons mandatory

Under the directions, buses must have functional Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTDs) and accessible panic buttons. Operators have also been asked to ensure that buses have adequate internal lighting while they are in motion so that activities inside can be visible from outside.

The government has also reiterated the ban on curtains and window films that obstruct visibility inside buses.

Buses must also be parked only at authorised, secure and adequately lit locations, particularly during night hours or when they are not in operation.

No unauthorised stops

The order also prohibits buses from stopping at unsafe or unauthorised locations, particularly in the middle of roads or at intersections. Passenger boarding and alighting must take place only at designated bus stops or other authorised locations.

Drivers and other bus staff have been directed to maintain proper conduct and carry valid licences and badges wherever applicable. Operators must also verify the credentials of drivers, conductors and other staff before deploying them.

Bus crews told to act against harassment

The directions also put emphasis on the responsibility of bus staff when it comes to the safety of women passengers.

Drivers, conductors and other crew members are to be sensitised about preventing harassment and the consequences of misconduct against women passengers. In cases involving molestation, eve-teasing or other offences against women, crews have been instructed to immediately inform the police and take the bus to the nearest police station, police post or PCR van.

Violations could lead to vehicle impounding, permit cancellation

The Transport Department has warned that violations of the prescribed safety norms could result in penalties, detention or impounding of buses, and suspension or cancellation of permits. Operators have also been asked to circulate the directions among their drivers and staff.

Delhi has around 450 registered private bus operators, according to officials cited by Hindustan Times. The department has also flagged concerns over unauthorised operations and violations such as unauthorised stoppages, use of black films and sleeper services operating in breach of permit conditions.

Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh said strict action would be taken against violations, including suspension or cancellation of permits where required.

Safety rules date back to 2012

The latest directions bring renewed attention to bus safety measures introduced after the December 2012 Delhi gang-rape case. In 2013, GPS tracking was made mandatory for chartered buses, while permit conditions were revised to prohibit curtains and window films, require internal lighting and display driver and owner details.

The latest crackdown comes amid renewed concerns over passenger safety after the alleged assault of the minor on a moving bus. The National Human Rights Commission has also taken suo motu cognisance of the reported incident and sought reports from the concerned police authorities.

The government has now indicated that enforcement drives will be intensified to ensure compliance with the prescribed safety and operational requirements.