Overloading in passenger buses

Overloading in passenger buses is a problem without a solution till now. This problem gets further complicated during peak hours. Inadequate number of passenger buses on various routes is the main reason for overloading. The introduction of e-buses had brought some respite to the passengers on a number of routes. Since these buses are not plying as per the demand and also not all routes, the problem of overloading persists. While there is a need to take action against drivers indulging in overloading, there is also a requirement to keep adequate number of buses available so that the passengers are not forced to travel in overloaded buses. Because of the shortage of buses, a number of passengers on the bus stops are not able to get inside the overloaded buses due to the rush. Subsequently, they have to wait for next buses and they reach their destinations late. Road Transport Corporation ( RTC) must run ladies special buses particularly for the girls studying in schools, colleges and universities besides the working women. There is a requirement to increase the number of such buses and those must be plied on all important routes. Even special e-buses must be utilised for the purpose. The transport authorities must also ensure that private passenger buses ply till late evening hours. There are reports that immediately after sunset, the buses disappear from roads causing inconvenience to passengers. The private transporters should keep the services available till late evening hours. The overloading in passenger buses is not a problem in Srinagar city only but in other towns and rural areas also. The problem must be addressed there as well so that people have the public transport available. Some overloaded passenger buses in Chenab Valley and Udhampur district have met with road accidents. A number of people have lost their lives in these mishaps. Then the authorities launched a drive to curb overloading problem. Again people say that they are forced to travel in overloaded buses due shortage of the buses on these routes. Overloading in passenger buses is a growing problem and has to solved at the earliest by adding more buses on the roads.