Lucknow: Following CM Yogi Adityanath’s announcement of free bus travel for women on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, the transport department has begun extensive preparations to ensure safe and smooth travel for passengers.Minister of state (independent charge) for transport Dayashankar Singh has directed better maintenance of buses operated by UPSRTC, substance-free operations by drivers and strict compliance with traffic rules. Verification of private bus, taxi and e-rickshaw drivers will also be conducted to ensure the safety of women.The minister thanked the CM for the decision to provide free travel facilities for women on Raksha Bandhan. He stated that considering the large number of women and families expected to travel during the festival, the transport system should remain safe, simple and convenient.Operators of private buses running during Raksha Bandhan have been directed to ensure police/character verification of drivers and conductors. Taxi and e-rickshaw operators have been instructed to allow only verified and competent drivers to operate vehicles. All transport operators have been directed to carry passengers strictly according to the prescribed passenger capacity. Transport officials have been instructed to remain active in the field during the festival and monitor arrangements. The transport minister stated that no driver or conductor should be on duty under the influence of intoxicants. Vehicle speed limits will be monitored and action will be taken against overspeeding. Strict enforcement will also be carried out against unauthorized transportation of passengers in goods vehicles or tractor-trolleys, overloading and operations in violation of rules.Directions have been issued for action against the use of high-volume DJ systems and illegal modifications to the original structure of vehicles during the festival. The fitness and technical condition of all buses should be inspected in advance.
