KSRTC to install dash cams in all sleeper buses

Move follows recent fire mishaps on highways; corporation releases detailed safety guidelines for sleeper and AC bus passengers

In response to a series of fire-related accidents involving sleeper coaches and air-conditioned buses on Karnataka and National Highways, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has announced major safety upgrades for its long-distance overnight services.

With passenger safety coming under sharp public focus after multiple fatalities in recent months, KSRTC on Wednesday said it will soon install dash cams and saloon cameras in all its sleeper buses. The move is aimed at closely monitoring driver behaviour, driving patterns, and onboard safety conditions. At present, such cameras are already installed in select premium buses, including Ambaari Utsav services, and the feature will now be extended across the entire sleeper fleet.

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Reaffirming that commuter safety remains its top priority, KSRTC has also released comprehensive safety protocols and checklists for passengers travelling in Pallakki AC and Non-AC Sleeper, Corona AC and Non-AC Sleeper, Airavata Club Class Seater, Ambaari Utsav, and Ambaari Dream Class buses. These guidelines explain the safety features available onboard and outline emergency response procedures.

According to an official release, all modern KSRTC sleeper buses, including those under the Pallakki and Ambaari series, are equipped with Fire Detection and Suppression Systems (FDSS). These systems are designed to detect early signs of fire and automatically control or suppress flames, especially in high-risk areas such as engine compartments, while alerting the crew.

Apart from fire safety systems, KSRTC buses are fitted with first-aid kits, emergency exits, dash cams, saloon cameras, fire extinguishers, panic buttons, and emergency hammers in premium category buses. Clear diagrams indicating the location of emergency exits and safety equipment are also displayed inside buses to help passengers evacuate quickly during emergencies.

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KSRTC has urged passengers to familiarise themselves with these safety tools. In particular, commuters have been advised to use emergency hammers to strike the corners of window glass, which are designed to break easily during critical situations.