Safety in Transit: A Case of Idle Panic Buttons
As the sun rises over the bustling streets of India, millions of commuters board buses to start their day. But have you ever wondered what lies behind the safety measures in place for these passengers? A recent parliamentary panel report has shed light on a curious case involving emergency alert buttons in buses. These switches, costing a mere Rs 15-20 each, have largely remained unused due to a lack of dedicated centres to respond to alerts.
A Safety Measure Born Out of Tragedy
The emergency alert buttons were made mandatory after the 2012 Nirbhaya case, a tragic incident that shook the nation. In the aftermath, the government introduced several safety measures to ensure the security of women passengers. The emergency alert buttons were one such measure, aimed at providing a quick response system in case of emergencies. However, despite being a crucial safety feature, these buttons have largely remained idle.
The Cost of Inaction
Bus operators have been required to pay a significant amount of money to have the switches tested during mandatory fitness tests. The cost ranges from Rs 2,500 to Rs 25,000 per vehicle, a steep price to pay for a feature that has not been utilized effectively. This raises questions about the efficacy of the system and the rationale behind charging bus operators for a service that is not being utilized.
A Mixed Response from States
The road transport ministry has informed the parliamentary panel that in several states, the system has been connected to the emergency response number 112. However, there have been instances of false alarms, prompting some states to disengage the system. The ministry has expressed a desire to restore the system, while some bus operators feel that it should be dispensed with altogether.
A Call for Action
A committee member observed that if the system is not effective, it is not fair to charge so much for it. One member asked why CCTV cameras could not be installed instead, which would provide a more effective safety measure. The ministry has stated that cameras are being made mandatory in new buses, a step in the right direction.
A Way Forward
The parliamentary panel has recommended that the programme to install emergency buttons, call facilities, and vehicle location tracking devices in public transport vehicles be pursued with states beyond the 16 that have made progress in implementing it. This is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety of commuters and making public transport a safer and more reliable option.
In conclusion, the case of idle panic buttons in buses highlights the need for effective safety measures in public transport. While the emergency alert buttons were introduced with good intentions, their ineffectiveness and the cost associated with them raise questions about the efficacy of the system. It is time for the government to take a closer look at the safety measures in place and work towards making public transport a safer and more reliable option for all commuters.