Mandya: Taking serious note of the viral footage, Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) suspended a bus driver, who is suspected of watching social media content while driving the vehicle, thereby endangering the lives of passengers. The incident came to light after a video showing the driver allegedly engrossed in his mobile phone went viral on social media.
KSRTC authorities suspended the driver for gross negligence and dereliction of duty. The driver, Mahesh, was suspended by Sharan Basavaraju, divisional controller, KSRTC Mandya division.Officials emphasised that such irresponsible behaviour would not be tolerated under any circumstances, especially when passenger safety is involved.Speaking to TOI, Basavaraju said the video provided prima facie evidence of misconduct. “Given the evidence available, we did not wait for the completion of a detailed inquiry. The driver was placed under pre-inquiry suspension for violating safety norms and putting passengers’ lives at risk. Though we don’t know the exact date of the incident, based on the videos that are available, we took the decision,” he added.The incident occurred on a KSRTC bus operating on the Malavalli-Mysuru route. Instead of keeping his focus on the road, the driver was allegedly found watching reels on his mobile phone while driving.While there may be limited flexibility for conductors regarding mobile phone usage, there is absolutely no such relaxation for drivers, said officials.“There is a strict rule prohibiting drivers from using mobile phones while driving. Safety of passengers is paramount. Though a detailed investigation will be conducted, the video shows the driver watching something on his phone. Hence, pending inquiry, he was suspended,” the divisional controller added, noting that the action should send a strong message to other KSRTC drivers.
