The number of accidents involving private buses has been steadily increasing over the period in the city. However, on a positive note, the number of fatal accidents has been coming down. While 228 accidents, including 23 fatal incidents, were reported in 2023, the next year witnessed 240 accidents, including 20 fatal cases. In 2025, the number of cases rose to 271, while 16 fatal accidents were reported, according to the report submitted by Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic west), to the SHRC.
The report was submitted at a sitting convened by Alexander Thomas, Chairperson, SHRC, at Pathadippalam on Thursday (January 22, 2026) to consider a slew of cases registered suo motu by the Commission following news reports of frequent traffic rules violations and lack of safety measures.
The police, in their report, informed the Commission that fines to the tune of ₹97.65 crore were imposed on private bus operators and employees in 2025 alone following detection of various offences. A total of 17,770 challans were issued for the offences.
The offences detected include stopping vehicles in a manner causing inconvenience to passengers and other road users, obstructive parking, disobedience to lawful orders, and failure to stop at designated bus stops. Operating without a licensed conductor, improper conduct by members of a bus crew, carrying passengers or luggage beyond permissible limits, and deviation or curtailment of trips were also detected.
Other frequent violations flagged by the enforces include driving without valid licence, dangerous driving including over-speeding, and excessive or unauthorised use of horns and lights.
Published – January 24, 2026 07:45 pm IST
