Shimla, Oct 23,
An HRTC bus driver was suspended on tuesday after being accused of driving under the influence of alcohol, causing a disruption in bus services on a major route in Himachal Pradesh.
The incident occurred near Kirdi, where alarmed passengers reported the driver’s erratic behavior and forced the bus to stop. The driver fled the scene before the police arrived.
The bus, carrying approximately 10-15 passengers, was traveling from Sari to Shimla via Shoghi. Passengers described the driver’s reckless driving, including hitting a parapet, which raised concerns about their safety.
Local residents intervened, contacting the Thadi Panchayat head, Narendra Sharma, who confirmed the driver’s intoxication and alerted the police. Sharma also noted the already irregular bus services in the area and called for stricter measures to prevent such incidents.
HRTC initiated a departmental inquiry, finding the driver guilty of negligence and suspending him. The bus was returned to the depot by another driver.
Ankur Verma, the Regional Manager of HRTC Shimla, stated that the corporation is taking strict action against such cases to ensure passenger safety.
This incident underscores the need for better regulation and monitoring of HRTC drivers to safeguard public safety on critical routes like Shimla.
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