Buses defy court order, risking passenger safety with open-door operations

Despite a directive from the Kerala High Court requiring all buses to have closed pneumatic doors while in motion, many private bus operators in Kozhikode district are failing to comply, putting passenger safety at risk. The Motor Vehicles Department and police enforcement squads have been ineffective in enforcing the rule, leading to hazardous situations for passengers. Malfunctioning pneumatic doors have led to accidents and injuries, with elderly people and students being the most affected. Some operators have even reverted to running buses with open doors due to financial constraints. Efforts are being made to crack down on safety violations, with plans for a special checking drive in response to rising complaints against bus operators.