By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The Bihar Transport Department has adopted a tough stance on the operation, construction and modification of sleeper buses in the state. Bihar Transport Minister Shravan Kumar has issued clear instructions warning that strict action will be taken against operators running seater buses illegally converted into sleeper or mixed seater–sleeper configurations. Permits of such vehicles will be cancelled with immediate effect.
The minister said that complaints received and inspections conducted during his recent visit to Katihar revealed that several buses registered as seaters were being unlawfully converted into sleepers and operated on inter-state routes. He described this practice as a serious threat to passenger safety and a direct violation of Rule 126 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, as well as AIS-052 and AIS-119 standards.
Shravan Kumar emphasised that the construction, inspection and operation of sleeper buses are permitted only under the AIS-052 Bus Body Code and AIS-119 (Sleeper Coach Standards). These norms mandate emergency exits, prescribed berth dimensions (1,800 mm in length and 600 mm in width), use of fire-resistant materials, and prototype certification by an authorised agency. He added that a physical inspection of the actual body configuration of buses would be compulsory before issuing fitness certificates and permits.
Several overnight buses operating from Bihar are reportedly running in modified sleeper mode despite holding AC seater permits. This has heightened the risk of fires, overloading and blocked emergency exits. Such irregularities have been found particularly on the Katihar–Siliguri route.
The minister made it clear that any seater bus found converted into a sleeper in future will face immediate cancellation of its permit. Departmental and legal action will also be initiated against erring bus operators, concerned RTO officials and other responsible persons.
Taking serious note of recent incidents of fires in sleeper buses, the department has introduced stricter provisions. Henceforth, sleeper buses may be built only by recognised automobile companies or factories approved by the Central Government. Local or unauthorised body builders will not be allowed to construct sleeper coaches.
Fire detection systems have been made mandatory in every sleeper bus. In addition, AI-based drowsiness alert systems must be installed to detect driver fatigue and issue timely warnings. Emergency hammers, emergency lighting, clearly marked exit gates and multi-point exit systems will also be compulsory.
The minister further stated that all existing sleeper buses will be required to retrofit these safety features without exception. The Transport Department will soon launch an extensive inspection drive to ensure passenger safety and strict compliance with the rules.
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