Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced strict new safety regulations for sleeper buses to reduce accidents and protect passengers.
Under the updated rules, all sleeper coaches must now have:
Fire detection systems
Clearly marked emergency exits with hammers
Emergency lighting for safer evacuation
In addition, buses will include driver drowsiness detection technology, which triggers an alarm if a driver shows signs of fatigue.
Only accredited automobile companies will be allowed to manufacture sleeper buses, with the central government overseeing accreditation.
Existing buses on the road will also need to be retrofitted with these safety features.
India’s Bio-Bitumen Revolution
In a related announcement, Gadkari highlighted India’s breakthrough in sustainable road technology.
At CSIR’s Technology Transfer Ceremony, he unveiled the commercial production of bio-bitumen made from agricultural waste, making India the first country in the world to do so on a large scale.
This innovation turns farm residue into a valuable resource, reducing pollution from crop burning and promoting a circular economy.
Using a 15% bio-bitumen blend could save India nearly ₹4,500 crores in foreign exchange while reducing dependence on imported crude oil.
The initiative will also empower farmers, create rural jobs, and boost the rural economy, contributing to Gadkari’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Why This Matters
The new bus safety norms will make travel safer for millions of passengers, while the bio-bitumen initiative marks a historic step toward sustainable infrastructure.
Together, these measures show India’s focus on innovation, safety, and environmental responsibility.
