TIRUPUR: A biker sustained minor injuries when a metal sheet from the roof of a government bus was ripped off by strong winds and fell on him near Koduvai in Tirupur district. The incident, which occurred on the evening of May 22, caused shock among commuters and highlighted concerns about the maintenance of public transport vehicles.
Roof Detaches During Gusty Winds
The government town bus, operating on route number 15A from Koduvai to Tirupur, was travelling with passengers when the incident took place. Near Sengattupalayam, a strong gust of wind reportedly caused the metal sheet covering the bus roof to detach. A portion of the detached sheet subsequently landed on the National Highway, striking a two-wheeler rider who was following the bus.
According to an official source, the biker was fortunate to escape with only minor injuries. Local residents noted that a more severe accident was averted as the incident occurred on a less congested rural stretch. They expressed that had such an event transpired in a densely populated area, the consequences could have been far graver.
Following the incident, passengers from the affected bus were transferred to another vehicle to continue their journey. Some passengers voiced concerns about the condition of government buses, citing instances of poor maintenance and loud mechanical noises. They urged transport authorities to prioritize passenger safety and ensure regular and thorough upkeep of the fleet.
Inquiry Underway, Maintenance Questioned
Ramalingam, the technical manager for the Tirupur State Transport Corporation, stated that an inquiry has been initiated to ascertain whether the strong winds were the sole cause of the roof detaching. He added that the bus in question had undergone repairs and was awaiting fitness certification. The corporation has indicated that inspections will be conducted to identify and address any defects in buses before they are permitted to operate, emphasizing the importance of a valid fitness certificate for all vehicles.
This incident in Tirupur echoes similar concerns raised about the state of public transport infrastructure in Tamil Nadu. In the past, there have been reports of accidents involving government buses, prompting calls for stricter safety protocols and more rigorous maintenance schedules.
Road safety in the region remains a pertinent issue, with various incidents, including collisions and accidents attributed to adverse weather or mechanical failures, being reported periodically. Authorities are expected to review the findings of the current inquiry to implement necessary measures and prevent future occurrences.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
