Hyderabad: In a major step towards enhancing road safety, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) has rolled out a new initiative that bans the use of mobile phones by bus drivers during duty hours. The rule, introduced in 11 depots across the state as part of a pilot project, comes in response to repeated concerns from passengers about the growing number of accidents linked to drivers being distracted by phone calls. The move reflects TGSRTC’s renewed commitment to ensuring passenger safety and minimizing risks on busy roads.
Under this initiative, drivers are required to switch off their mobile phones and deposit them with the depot security officer before starting duty. The phones will be returned only after duty hours are completed, ensuring that drivers remain fully focused while behind the wheel. To address emergencies, TGSRTC has introduced a special communication system for drivers’ families, allowing urgent messages to be conveyed through bus conductors. Officials believe this method strikes a balance between maintaining safety and addressing genuine personal needs of drivers during working hours.
The new regulation is currently being tested in depots located at Farooqnagar, Kukatpally, Kollapur, Sangareddy, Miryalguda, Vikarabad, Utnoor, Khammam, Kamareddy, and Parakala. Based on the effectiveness of the pilot, TGSRTC plans to assess its results before deciding whether to expand the initiative across all depots in the state. If successful, this reform could become a model for other states in India, where mobile phone distractions continue to pose a significant challenge to road safety.
