HYDERABAD: RTC raises bus floor height for safety
HYDERABAD: State Road Transport Corporation (RTC) buses are now being built with higher floors, following revised automotive safety standards.
The newly manufactured buses on roads appear taller than older models. RTC has also made minor changes to the front colouring to distinguish the new design. While earlier buses had five steps, the increased floor height has led to the addition of a sixth step.
Design change improves passenger safety near wheel areas
In older buses, the floor above the wheels known as the wheel dome was raised by about half a foot. Passengers seated there faced discomfort and had to sit with folded legs. In case of a tyre burst, the dome could lift suddenly due to pressure, leading to injuries. Fatal incidents were also reported.
To address this, authorities decided that the entire bus floor should be at a uniform level. The floor height has now been raised to match the wheel dome height, ensuring a flat surface across the bus. This change improves both safety and seating comfort.
However, passengers accustomed to older designs may initially find the raised steps unfamiliar. To prevent accidents, RTC has placed yellow radium stickers on steps to improve visibility.
New AIS-153 norms mandate uniform bus floor structure
The changes follow revisions to the Automotive Industry Standard (AIS-153) by the central government. The updated norms require modifications in bus body design to improve safety.
As a result, all new buses will follow the higher-floor design. Around 300 such buses have recently been introduced.
Roof hatch, smoke alarm now compulsory in all buses
Under the new norms, every bus must have a roof hatch. Though earlier seen mainly in premium buses for ventilation, the hatch serves as an emergency exit.
If a bus overturns and doors become inaccessible, passengers can escape through the roof hatch. The rule now applies to all buses, from premium services to Palle Velugu buses.
Additionally, a smoke detection system with an alarm has been made mandatory. This system alerts passengers at the initial stage of a fire, allowing timely evacuation and reducing risk to life.
