RTO Launches Inspection Drive to Prevent Sudden Vehicle Fires Amid Rising Temperatures
Two Automated Driving Test Centers To Come Up In Pune
Pune: In light of rising temperatures and increasing cases of moving vehicles catching fire, the Regional Transport Office (RTO) has initiated an inspection drive for commercial vehicles. The campaign aims to ensure compliance with government safety regulations and assess whether vehicles are equipped with adequate fire prevention measures. The drive will cover school transport vehicles, company-owned private and internal transport vehicles, auto-rickshaws, and passenger transport vehicles.
Recent Incidents Raise Safety Concerns
A recent fire incident in Hinjawadi resulted in the tragic deaths of four individuals due to a company transport vehicle catching fire. While the case involved intentional arson, preliminary investigations revealed a lack of emergency safety measures in the vehicle. It was found that neither the driver nor the transport provider had briefed passengers on emergency protocols.
Additionally, several complaints have been raised regarding the lack of proper safety measures in school transport vehicles. Reports indicate that cases of vehicles catching fire increase significantly during summer. Even when all official documentation is in place, it is equally important to verify whether safety protocols prescribed by the Transport Department are being properly implemented. Against this backdrop, the RTO has launched an inspection campaign to ensure strict compliance with safety measures, as reported by Loksatta.
The inspection drive will be conducted in phases, with dedicated teams assigned to carry out vehicle checks. The key aspects of the inspection include:
- Verification of essential documents such as Fitness Certificates, Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificates, road tax, and other legal paperwork.
- Assessment of fire prevention equipment in vehicles, including fire extinguishers, their placement, and accessibility.
- Evaluation of speed limit control systems, seat belts, and early warning mechanisms.
- For electric vehicles, checking the presence of battery cut-off systems to prevent sudden overheating.
- Inspection of emergency exits (doors and windows) and ensuring they are easily accessible in case of a fire.
- Review of passenger safety briefings, confirming that travelers are informed about emergency escape procedures.
- Examination of vehicle maintenance and repairs, ensuring that fire hazard warning systems are operational.
Transport Unions React
Maharashtra’s Goods and Passenger Transport Association has responded to the initiative, stating, “Annual inspections of commercial vehicles are a routine practice. Vehicle owners and drivers already comply with safety requirements, and we have no objections to the RTO’s inspection drive.” – Baba Shinde, President, Maharashtra State Goods and Passenger Transport Association.
Before commencing the inspection, the RTO plans to hold discussions with representatives from passenger transport associations to ensure smooth implementation.
“The inspection drive will include checks on vehicle maintenance and safety compliance. A meeting with transport union representatives will be held beforehand to discuss the process.” – Swapnil Bhosale, Deputy Regional Transport Officer, Pune.
