KSRTC launches state-wide safety audit after Kurnool bus fire accident

Following the tragic private bus fire in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district on October 24, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has launched a comprehensive safety audit of its fleet across the State.

A senior KSRTC official said that depot-level teams have already begun inspecting buses, with particular focus on emergency exits, fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and other safety equipment. “All buses are being checked to ensure that the fire extinguishers are in working condition and that the first-aid kits are fully stocked. The condition and accessibility of emergency exits are also being verified,” the official explained.

To address potential risks

In addition to safety checks, KSRTC has begun reviewing the renewal and maintenance schedules of its vehicles to identify and address potential risks. The official said that the ongoing inspection covers both day and night services, ensuring that all buses especially long-distance ones meet fire safety standards.

In a note dated October 28, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy directed the managing directors of the KSRTC, BMTC, NWKRTC and KKRTC to conduct immediate safety audits.

Referring to the Kurnool tragedy, Mr. Reddy stressed the need for heightened vigilance to prevent similar incidents in Karnataka. He recalled a similar accident near Haveri district during his previous tenure as Transport Minister, when a private bus caught fire, claiming several lives. That incident had prompted a state-wide safety inspection of nearly 50,000 vehicles, including state-run, private, tourist, and school buses, following which additional emergency exits were installed.

Mr. Reddy further instructed officials to ensure that no flammable or explosive materials are transported along with passenger luggage or commercial goods.

Safety audit

As part of the current audit, KSRTC has begun checking the functionality of fire detection and suppression systems (FDSS) and fire alarm and protection systems (FAPS) installed in buses. Officials are verifying that these systems are properly maintained and that drivers and conductors are trained to operate them in case of emergencies.

The corporation has also mandated that all night-service vehicles must carry at least two fire extinguishers of five litres each, while other buses should have extinguishers as per prescribed norms. “Electrical wiring in every bus is being examined to ensure there are no loose or damaged connections. Additionally, audits are being carried out to confirm that battery cut-off switches are operational and that any defective ones are repaired immediately,” official said.

In air-conditioned buses, KSRTC teams are ensuring that emergency hammers used to break windows during emergencies are installed and easily accessible. If missing, depot officials have been asked to fit them before the buses are dispatched for service.

“Drivers and crew have been strictly warned against lighting mosquito coils or any open flames during night journeys. Before any vehicle is sent for operation, its emergency doors, passenger doors, and driver’s door will be checked for smooth functioning,” the official added.

Furthermore, the corporation will begin regular audio and video announcements at all major bus stations, reminding passengers not to carry inflammable or explosive materials on board. “The campaign aims to raise public awareness and prevent unsafe practices that could endanger lives,” officials said.