Rape in Pune Shivshahi Bus: Maharashtra Transport Minister Orders Security Audit of Bus Stands and Depots
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Mumbai, 27th February 2025: Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has directed an immediate security audit of all bus stands and depots across the state. Additionally, he has instructed authorities to remove unregistered buses and seized vehicles from these premises by April 15 to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
The minister emphasized the need for increased security measures, particularly for women passengers, during a review meeting held at the office of the Additional Chief Secretary (Transport). Key officials present included Additional Chief Secretary and ST Corporation Chairman Sanjay Sethi, Transport Commissioner and ST Corporation Vice President (in-charge) Vivek Bhimanwar, Joint Secretary Rajendra Holkar, and other senior ST Corporation officials.
Considering the rising number of women commuters, Minister Sarnaik instructed officials to increase the number of female security guards at bus stands. “Women’s safety is a priority, and we must ensure their travel experience is secure and hassle-free,” he stated.
In addition, the vacant post of Chief Security and Vigilance Officer in the State Transport Corporation should be filled by an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, and the proposal should be submitted to the Home Department without delay.
To modernize security infrastructure, AI-based surveillance systems will be installed at all ST bus stops and depots. The minister also emphasized the urgent installation of CCTVs in newly added buses and the completion of GPS system installation across the fleet.
Additionally, he instructed that:
Local police should increase patrolling at bus stands.
Depot managers should reside within the depot premises for better supervision.
All ST employees should carry official identity cards to prevent impersonation and fraud.
Security guards must register every bus entering a depot and ensure that doors and windows are locked when buses are left unattended.
Apart from safety, cleanliness at bus stands must not be compromised, the minister stressed. He directed that:
Women’s toilets should be spacious and available at every bus stand.
Senior officials must regularly review cleanliness and hygiene standards.
Passenger amenities should be of high quality.
“We want passengers to feel safe, secure, and comfortable when using ST bus services. Our efforts will ensure better transport facilities for all,” Sarnaik concluded.
