Bhubaneswar: A total of 3,322 passenger buses have been in steady operation in Odisha over the last decade, as informed by Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena in the state assembly on Thursday.
Responding to a query from Jeypore MLA Tara Prasada Bihinipati, Minister Jena revealed that Bhubaneswar alone has 1,484 registered school buses. However, of these, 460 buses have been deemed unfit for operation.
The Minister further emphasized that the department’s enforcement team is carrying out regular inspections and issuing e-challans against violators to ensure road safety.
Regarding ongoing efforts, Minister Jena highlighted Rule 189 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), 1989, which specifies the types of tests to be conducted when inspecting vehicles for the renewal of fitness certificates.
These tests include both visual and functional checks, with the functional tests requiring specialized testing equipment, as outlined in Rule 190 of the CMVR, 1989. Visual inspections are carried out by IMVs, AMVIs, and Jr. MVIs through a physical inspection of the vehicle.
The department has also focused on key vehicle components to ensure road safety during these inspections. The following parts are given particular attention:
- Headlamp Assembly
- Top Light
- Stop Light
- Parking Light
- Fog Lamp
- Number Plate Light
- End Outline Marker Lamp
- Direction Indicator
- Hazard Warning Signal Lamp
- Rearview Mirror
- Windshield Glass with Wiper
- Dashboard Equipment
- Parking Brake & Service Brake
- Steering Play
- Speedometer
- RUPD and LUPD
- HSRP Number Plate
- Battery
- Spray Suppression Device
- Tires
- Retro Reflective Tape
In addition to these components, the width, height, length, and overhang of the vehicle are also scrutinized to ensure they meet the standards prescribed under Rule 93 of the CMV Rules, 1989.
The Minister has instructed that all MVIs, Assistant MVIs, and Jr. MVIs ensure strict compliance with these inspections during the renewal of fitness certificates. Any lapses in this regard will result in personal accountability, with disciplinary action to follow.
