NHRC Slams Punjab Over 'Dangerous' Tirth Yatra Buses; Demands Report in 7 Days
NHRC orders Punjab Chief Secretary to inspect buses under Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana following safety alarms and structural concerns.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has stepped in after alarming allegations surfaced regarding the safety of AC sleeper buses used in the Punjab government’s Punjab Tirth Yatra buses under the Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana. The scheme, designed to help senior citizens and economically disadvantaged individuals visit pilgrimage sites, is now under scrutiny for allegedly transporting vulnerable passengers in vehicles that flout basic safety norms.
Serious Safety Lapses Alleged
NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo revealed that the commission received a complaint detailing severe structural and safety deficiencies in the buses hired for the pilgrimage. The allegations suggest that the vehicles have undergone unauthorised modifications that could prove fatal in the event of an accident or fire.
Key concerns raised in the complaint include:
- Structural Hazards: Buses have allegedly been extended beyond their original chassis, creating unstable and dangerous driving conditions.
- Blocked Exits: There are reports of emergency exits and windows being obstructed, which would hinder a quick escape during a crisis.
- Internal Partitions: Unauthorised partitions have reportedly been installed between the driver’s cabin and the passenger area, as well as right in the middle of the passenger section.
- Fire Safety Failures: The buses are allegedly lacking essential fire detection systems, suppression equipment, and proper emergency evacuation arrangements.
'Highly Irresponsible' Treatment of Elderly
The NHRC expressed particular concern over the demographic of the passengers. Since the Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana primarily serves the elderly, the commission noted that these passengers are often unable to rescue themselves if an emergency occurs.
"The serious thing here, though, is that the state government itself has allegedly hired buses that don’t meet safety standards. This is especially risky when they’re transporting elderly passengers," stated Priyank Kanoongo.
Kanoongo further emphasized that the government's responsibility is doubled when transporting such a vulnerable group, calling the alleged use of sub-standard buses "highly irresponsible."
NHRC Takes Decisive Action
Drawing from past tragedies where fires in moving sleeper coaches led to passenger deaths, the NHRC had previously warned state governments against using such non-compliant vehicles. In this instance, the commission has taken a strict stance against the Punjab administration.
The NHRC Bench, presided over by Priyank Kanoongo, has issued formal notices under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, to:
- The Chief Secretary, Government of Punjab: Who has been asked to personally monitor the situation, conduct a thorough inspection of all buses used in the scheme, and submit a detailed report within seven days.
- The Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India.