Pune RTO to Launch Crackdown on Private Vehicle Fitness Inspections Following Fatal Fire Incident
Pune RTO to Launch Crackdown on Private Vehicle Fitness Inspections Following Fatal Fire Incident
PUNE: In response to a tragic fire incident in Pune’s Hinjewadi area, which resulted in the deaths of four office employees, the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) has announced a strict crackdown on private passenger vehicles. The RTO will conduct rigorous fitness inspections starting next week to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
The incident, involving a private tempo traveller that caught fire on Wednesday, has raised concerns over vehicle safety, prompting urgent action from the authorities. The Pune RTO will meet with private passenger transport organizations this week to issue strict guidelines on vehicle fitness, maintenance, and compliance with transport regulations.
RTO to Enforce Stricter Checks on Private Vehicles
Swapnil Bhosale, Deputy Regional Transport Officer, Pune, stated, “The Hinjewadi fire incident was a tragic wake-up call. A special campaign will be launched to inspect private passenger vehicles for fitness, insurance, Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates, and other necessary documentation.”
To prevent similar incidents, the RTO has instructed private bus operators to adhere to the following rules:
- Vehicles must not operate without a valid RTO permit.
- Regular fitness inspections must be conducted, and certificates renewed within the stipulated time.
- Overloading of passengers beyond the permitted limit is strictly prohibited.
- Unauthorized vehicle modifications, such as rear extensions, will not be allowed.
- Long-distance vehicles must have two uniformed drivers onboard.
- Emergency exits, hammers for breaking windows, and first-aid kits must be available in every vehicle.
Fire Safety and Passenger Fare Regulations
Bhosale further emphasized fire safety measures, stating, “Every vehicle must have a fire extinguisher, and drivers should be trained in its usage. Additionally, private operators must not overcharge passengers—fares should not exceed 1.5 times the rate set by the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC).”
Transport Operators React to New Guidelines
A private bus operator, acknowledged the importance of these measures, saying, “The Hinjewadi incident highlights the need for stricter compliance. We are committed to following the RTO’s guidelines to ensure passenger safety.”
Meanwhile, Neelam Deshmukh, a member of the Pune Private Transport Vehicles’ Association, stressed the need for fair enforcement, stating, “While we support the RTO’s safety drive, it is essential that authorities also address the challenges faced by transport operators, particularly during summer when fire incidents are more frequent.”
With the Pune RTO stepping up inspections and enforcing stricter vehicle fitness norms, private transport operators are now under pressure to comply with regulations and prioritize passenger safety.
