Tamil Nadu Launches New Buses With Safety Panic Button For Passengers

The Tamil Nadu government is rolling out new buses across the state, including green buses for SETC services. These buses come with a red button for passengers, which we will explore further.

Buses have been crucial for public transport, especially when private vehicles are scarce. They have significantly contributed to the country's development. The government continues to update and introduce buses to meet modern needs.

New Tamil Nadu Buses Feature Safety Button

Recently, the Tamil Nadu government introduced yellow buses for inter-district travel. Now, they have added green buses for SETC, equipped with advanced features. A total of 200 new buses have been ordered, and deliveries are underway.

In these new buses, a red button covered with glass is located in the middle of the passenger seats. Passengers who have travelled recently might have noticed this button but may not know its purpose.

This red button is known as the Panic Button. It is intended for passengers to alert the driver if they face any discomfort or trouble during their journey. Pressing this button triggers an alarm in the driver's area.

This feature is particularly aimed at enhancing women's safety on buses. Crimes against women on public transport can go unnoticed by nearby passengers. In such situations, women can use this Panic Button to seek immediate help.

The Panic Button system was introduced in Tamil Nadu government buses in 2022. However, its usage is not widespread due to a lack of awareness among passengers. There are no clear instructions on the button about its purpose.

Comparison With Foreign Practices

Similar to the alarm chains on trains, these buttons are common in foreign countries and are considered essential safety features. The Tamil Nadu government has adopted this facility in state buses but has not ensured its proper functioning and awareness among the public.

Despite introducing this safety feature, it remains underutilised due to insufficient public awareness. Many passengers are unaware of its existence or functionality. The government needs to educate the public about this feature to ensure it serves its intended purpose effectively.

Article Published On: Friday, July 12, 2024, 7:24 [IST]
Read more on: #off beat
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