Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Mar 2: In a decisive move to tighten passenger safety norms, the transport department in Panaji has issued a public notice directing all buses operating in Goa to comply with AIS-119 safety standards by March 31. The order follows instructions from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which called for the implementation of key safety recommendations made by the Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT).

AIS-119 lays down mandatory construction and safety norms for sleeper coaches (Type IV buses) across India, with particular emphasis on fire resistance, emergency exits, structural stability, and berth configuration to ensure passenger protection.

The transport department has specified four compulsory measures that must be adopted without exception. These include the removal of driver partition doors, provision of emergency exits in all buses up to 12 metres in length, installation and full operational readiness of fire detection and suppression systems in sleeper coaches, and strict structural compliance. In sleeper coaches, berths must not have sliding mechanisms, nor should there be any unauthorised chassis extensions.

Authorities have made it clear that any vehicle failing to meet the prescribed standards must be immediately withdrawn from service. The notice warns that non-compliance will invite stringent action, including penalties under applicable laws.

The directive has come into force with immediate effect, and all operators — including private bus owners as well as the Kadamba Transport Corporation Limited — have been instructed to ensure full adherence within the stipulated deadline.