Madhya Pradesh: Passenger Safety At Risk In Jhabua's Private Buses

Jhabua (Madhya Pradesh): In Jhabua district, the operation of private passenger vehicles has come under scrutiny due to increasing irregularities and mismanagement. Notably, buses operated by Shubham India under MP Transport have been reported for arbitrary treatment of passengers.

Many of these private buses are running without valid fitness certificates and fail to meet mandatory safety standards, raising serious concerns about passenger safety. Incidents of overloading and misconduct towards women have become alarmingly common, yet the district transport department appears to be turning a blind eye to these issues.

Recently, a meeting involving private bus operators and drivers highlighted the ongoing problems. Drivers have been filling buses beyond capacity, compromising safety and comfort. Regular maintenance of these vehicles is often neglected, leading to a heightened risk of accidents.

Passengers frequently experience delays in reaching their destinations and many are subjected to arbitrary fare increases, further exacerbating their frustration. The Shubham India company has faced numerous complaints regarding its operations, with reports of misbehaviour and disrespect towards passengers surfacing regularly.

Additionally, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of passengers migrating to cities in Gujarat and Rajasthan, which has led to complications with transporting heavy luggage on these private buses. The lack of proper documentation, such as the absence of a list of reserved seats for women, adds to the growing concerns.

In light of these issues, the district transport department must take immediate action. Ensuring compliance with safety regulations, addressing passenger grievances and implementing stricter oversight of private transport services are crucial steps needed to restore public confidence and ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers in the region.