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Maharashtra Mandates Breathalyzer Tech in Buses to Curb Drunk Driving

The Maharashtra Transport Department has mandated the installation of an advanced breathalyzer system in all new state transport and private buses to prevent drunk driving. The Rs 1.5 lakh system, integrated into the driver's seat, analyzes breath and prevents the engine from starting if alcohol is detected. This directive follows tragic accidents, including a Pune crash that killed 25 people due to an intoxicated driver. A comprehensive state-wide road safety plan with improved signage and markings is also in its final approval stages.

Key Points: Maharashtra Buses Get Mandatory Breathalyzer Ignition Locks

  • New breathalyzer tech stops bus if driver drunk
  • System costs ~Rs 1.5 lakh per unit
  • Mandate for new state & private buses
  • Response to fatal accidents like Pune crash
  • Comprehensive road safety plan finalized
3 min read

Maha govt directs installation of safety systems​

Maharashtra mandates new buses install Rs 1.5 lakh breathalyzer systems that prevent engine start if driver is drunk, following fatal accidents.

"Moving forward, severe action will be taken against those driving under the influence. - Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik"

Mumbai, Feb 24

In a move to curb drunk-driving-related accidents, the Maharashtra State Transport Department has initiated a mandate for an advanced safety system in buses. ​

Responding to a 'Calling Attention' motion in the Legislative Assembly, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Tuesday announced that a new model of breathalyser technology has been introduced. The system, priced at approximately Rs 1.5 lakh, is designed to prevent a vehicle from starting if the driver is intoxicated. ​

The technology involves a breathalyser test integrated into the driver's seat. As soon as the driver sits down, the system conducts a breath analysis; if the driver is found to have consumed alcohol, the bus engine will fail to ignite, the minister said.​

Minister Sarnaik said the instructions have been issued to Tata Motors and Ashok Leyland to install this system in all new State Transport (ST) buses. Similar directives will be issued to private bus manufacturers to ensure this safety feature is integrated into private passenger vehicles.​

"In light of the increasing number of accidents in the state, the Transport Department has initiated several stringent measures. Moving forward, severe action will be taken against those driving under the influence," Minister Sarnaik stated. ​

The Minister was responding to a motion raised by MLA Dhananjay Munde regarding accidents involving private sleeper coach buses on state highways. Other prominent leaders, including Jayant Patil, Bhaskar Jadhav, Aaditya Thackeray, and Devyani Pharande, also participated in the discussion.​

Recalling recent tragedies, Minister Sarnaik mentioned a horrific accident at Pune that claimed 25 lives last year. Police investigations confirmed that the driver was intoxicated at the time of the crash.​

Similarly, in October 2023, an accident on the Samruddhi Expressway at Vaijapur resulted in 12 fatalities.

​The Minister also addressed the issue of unauthorised modifications in private buses, noting that many now feature double-level sleeper berths. ​

"While sleeper coaches are banned in many foreign countries, they are permitted in India under Central Government regulations. Even if Maharashtra imposes a ban, buses registered in other states could still operate here," he clarified.​

A comprehensive roadmap for road safety is currently being finalised. The plan includes visibility enhancements, signage, and distance markers. ​

Installation of reflectors and arrow markings, directional boards for U-turns and straight lanes, and cleared signage at intervals of 100, 200, 300, and 500 meters will be carried out, said the minister.

​According to the minister, this safety framework will be implemented across National Highways, Public Works Department (PWD) roads, ST Corporation routes, and municipal corporation limits.

​He added that the plan is in its final stages and will receive official approval shortly.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good initiative, but Rs 1.5 lakh per bus is a significant cost. Who will bear this? ST corporation is already struggling. Will fares increase? The intention is perfect, but the financial planning needs to be transparent.
A
Aman W
Finally! This should have been done years ago. Drivers operating heavy vehicles under influence is a serious crime. The system integrated into the seat is smart. Now, please ensure strict maintenance so it doesn't become another faulty gadget.
S
Sarah B
As someone who travels frequently on overnight buses, this news is a huge relief. The double-decker sleeper modifications always felt unsafe. Along with tech, I hope driver working hours and rest periods are also regulated properly.
V
Vikram M
The minister's point about inter-state buses is crucial. A Maharashtra-only rule won't help if buses from other states enter without this system. Need a national policy from the Centre. Road safety can't have state borders.
K
Kavya N
Good step, but what about existing buses? Only installing in new buses will take years to show effect. There should be a retrofit plan for the current fleet. Also, better signage and road markings are basic things that should have been done already.

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