TGSRTC has suspended 500 electric buses operated by JBM on inter-city routes until fresh fitness certification is completed by experts and senior officials.
Hyderabad: TGSRTC has temporarily suspended about 500 electric buses manufactured by JBM operating its services in the city, following recurring battery-related fire incidents. RTC said operations would resume only after safety certification is completed.
The decision follows a June 21 fire near Alugunur in Karimnagar district. TGSRTC has sought a comprehensive report from JBM, including accident analysis, permanent preventive measures, battery fitness certification and the establishment of a command and control centre at Bus Bhavan in Hyderabad. A command and control centre has been set up at Bus Bhavan to monitor operations. JBM has deployed its technical team and battery experts to examine the incidents and prepare a report on corrective measures. The corporation said a final decision on resumption of services will be taken after senior RTC officials review the reports and are satisfied that safety standards are met.
TGSRTC has suspended 500 electric buses operated by JBM on inter-city routes until fresh fitness certification is completed by experts and senior officials. The corporation operates a fleet of 1,050 electric buses, including those supplied by JBM, Olectra and MEIL. Officials said the suspension applies only to JBM buses used for inter-city services. Officials told Deccan Chronicle that steps are being taken to ensure that passengers are not affected.
