Punjab ordered to inspect Tirth Yatra scheme buses

NHRC has directed Punjab's Chief Secretary to inspect all buses used under Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana after taking cognisance of allegations that some sleeper buses may not meet safety rules.

Buses found violating mandatory safety rules must be withdrawn until defects are corrected and compliance is confirmed. NHRC has given the Punjab Chief Secretary and the Union Road Transport and Highways Secretary seven days to submit detailed action reports. Punjab's report must cover the number of buses, inspections, defects, corrective steps, vehicles withdrawn and accountability. The ministry must review compliance with bus-body design standards, Automotive Industry Standards and CIRT guidelines.