In the aftermath of the devastating fire that engulfed a Bengaluru-bound bus in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, on October 24, 2025, resulting in the deaths of 20 passengers, the Karnataka government has ordered a sweeping safety audit of all buses operated by the state’s four transport corporations. The announcement was made on Wednesday by State Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, who stressed that the audit aims to ensure strict adherence to safety norms and prevent recurrence of such tragedies.
The review will cover buses operated by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC), and North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC). The audit will focus on assessing the mechanical condition of buses, renewal records, and compliance with existing safety regulations, ensuring that all vehicles are fit for passenger transport.
In a formal communication to the managing directors of the state transport corporations dated October 28, 2025, Minister Reddy described the Kurnool tragedy as “deeply tragic” and underlined the need for renewed vigilance. “Safety systems in all transport corporation buses across the state must be reviewed,” he wrote, highlighting that previous lapses in preventive measures could no longer be tolerated.
Reddy, who previously served as transport minister a decade ago, recalled a similar incident near Haveri, which had prompted a state-wide inspection drive. During that campaign, approximately 50,000 vehicles, including state buses and school vans, were retrofitted with functional emergency exit doors. The review at the time had revealed major safety deficiencies across bus fleets, prompting stricter enforcement of regulations.
New Safety Measures and Guidelines
Following the recent accident, the Karnataka Transport Department announced plans to issue a circular establishing enhanced safety requirements for all passenger buses, both public and private. The circular, expected to be issued in the coming week, will mandate the following measures:
- Additional Emergency Exit Doors: Most premium and sleeper buses currently have two main doors and, in some cases, only one rear emergency exit. The new rules will require an additional emergency exit to facilitate faster evacuation during accidents.
- Multiple Fire Extinguishers: Presently, most buses carry only one or two fire extinguishers, usually near the driver’s seat. The new mandate will ensure multiple extinguishers are placed at accessible points throughout the vehicle.
- Enhanced Window Exits: Many sleeper coaches have windows designed as emergency exits, with hammers provided to break the glass. Reddy noted that passengers rarely use these in moments of panic, emphasizing the need for more accessible exit options.
- Prohibition of Luggage Compartment Use: No staff or passengers will be allowed to rest in luggage compartments to prevent obstruction during emergencies.
- Ban on Flammable Goods: The transport department will strictly enforce rules against carrying inflammable or explosive materials alongside passenger luggage. Negligence in this regard will invite severe action against both officials and operators.
The minister emphasized the importance of these measures, stating, “In moments of panic, passengers rush toward the main door, creating confusion and delays. Multiple exits and better fire safety measures can save lives.”
Historical Context and Lessons Learned
Karnataka has witnessed several tragic bus accidents in the past, underscoring the importance of stringent safety regulations. Minister Reddy referred to a 2013 fire on the Bengaluru–Hyderabad highway, which claimed 45 lives. Following that incident, the government had laid down several safety norms for buses, including the installation of emergency exits and mandatory fire safety equipment.
The current initiative, Reddy stressed, is not merely about introducing new rules but ensuring strict enforcement. “We had laid down several safety norms then. What is required now is stronger enforcement,” he said, underlining the need for periodic audits and compliance checks across the state’s transport fleet.
Scope and Implementation
The audit will involve physical inspections of all buses, verification of maintenance records, and assessment of compliance with fire and mechanical safety norms. The Transport Department will collaborate closely with regional and district transport offices to ensure that no vehicle is overlooked.
The government has also indicated that private bus operators will be required to follow the new safety guidelines. This includes installation of emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and window hammers, alongside adherence to bans on flammable cargo and luggage compartment usage.
Minister Reddy warned that officials or operators found negligent in implementing safety measures would face strict administrative action, including penalties and potential suspension of operations. He stated, “No compromise can be allowed on passenger safety. Every preventive measure will be enforced rigorously.”
Public Safety and Accountability
The Kurnool tragedy has once again brought the spotlight onto passenger transport safety, particularly in long-distance and inter-state bus travel. Experts have consistently highlighted the risks posed by overcrowding, mechanical failures, inadequate fire safety measures, and poor regulatory enforcement.
By conducting a state-wide audit and issuing updated safety mandates, Karnataka aims to prevent similar accidents in the future and improve overall passenger confidence in public transport. The government’s approach reflects a proactive safety-first mindset, prioritizing lives over operational convenience.
Minister’s Vision and Commitment
State Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy expressed personal commitment to overseeing the audit and implementation of new safety measures. He emphasized the need for continuous monitoring and accountability among transport officials. Drawing from his prior experience, Reddy noted that public transport safety is a dynamic challenge, requiring constant vigilance, updating of safety protocols, and education of bus staff.
“It is not enough to lay down rules. They must be followed meticulously, with clear accountability mechanisms. Every bus, whether operated by the government or private operators, must meet the highest safety standards,” he said.
Conclusion
The Karnataka government’s decision to conduct a comprehensive safety audit across all state-operated transport buses, coupled with the introduction of enhanced emergency exits, fire safety equipment, and strict regulatory oversight, represents a decisive step toward improving passenger safety. The initiative reflects lessons learned from past tragedies, including the Kurnool fire and earlier incidents, and underscores the government’s commitment to preventing avoidable accidents.
As the state gears up to implement these measures, the success of the program will depend on rigorous enforcement, adherence to safety protocols, and timely monitoring across the state’s four major transport corporations. With lives at stake, Karnataka’s transport authorities are poised to set a new benchmark in passenger safety standards in India.
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