Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Nov 14: Transport minister Ramalinga Reddy on Thursday announced that emergency exit doors will now be mandatory in all buses operating across Karnataka.

The directive was issued during a review meeting held with senior officials of the transport department. Referring to recent bus accidents in the state, the minister said that no bus will be allowed to renew its registration or fitness certificate unless it is equipped with an emergency exit door. A circular enforcing the rule will be issued soon, he added.

Reddy warned that strict disciplinary action will be taken against officials who fail to implement the directive.

He further stated that interstate buses entering Karnataka will be inspected, and those found without emergency exit doors will have their fitness certificates cancelled.

The minister also instructed officials to intensify checks on buses carrying excess luggage and heavy vehicles transporting loads beyond permitted limits.

All school and college buses must undergo thorough inspection before their fitness certificates are renewed, he said. Vehicles operating with expired certificates must be issued notices immediately, and special monthly inspection teams will be formed to monitor compliance.