MAPUSA: In the wake of the recent Balrath school bus accident in Balli that resulted in injuries to children due to mechanical failure, residents of Mapusa have raised concerns about the unsafe operating conditions of these buses in Mapusa.
Some of those who raised concern reported observing an over-crowded Balrath bus attempting to ascend a steep slope, raising alarm about impending dangers and the risk of accidents. Residents have urged government intervention in this important issue, emphasizing the need for additional buses to reduce overcrowding risks.
Calling attention to the potentially dangerous situation, Mapusa local Salman Khan emphasized, “The overloaded Balrath buses pose a serious safety threat to children, especially when navigating steep slopes. The potential for another mechanical failure is impending, putting our children’s lives at risk. Preventive measures must be taken immediately. Increasing the number of buses can alleviate the problem of overcrowding of buses.”
Another resident, Abdul Shaik, stressed the importance of timely maintenance for the Balrath fleet. “Employees receive salaries, so maintenance should be a priority. Safety measures need to be prioritized above everything else. Parents should actively monitor bus overcrowding and report concerns to the school to prevent a potential tragedy. Both the government and parents need to remain vigilant,” he urged.
