Ahmedabad Lowers Speed Limit for AMTS Buses Following Series of Accidents

AHMEDABAD, GUJARAT : In response to a spate of accidents involving municipal buses, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has decided to reduce the speed limit for Amdavad Municipal Transport Service (AMTS) buses from 50 km/h to 40 km/h. This decision aims to curb reckless driving and enhance road safety.

AMC and AMTS officials have instructed private bus operators to comply with the new speed limit within the next 10 to 15 days. The directive follows a series of alarming incidents that have raised serious concerns about bus safety in the city.

One of the most shocking accidents occurred on April 19, when an AMTS bus crushed a scooter rider near Bhulabhai Crossroads. The horrific incident was captured on CCTV and quickly spread across social media, drawing widespread attention and outrage. Following this, another disturbing video surfaced on April 25, showing a Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) driver watching a cricket match on his phone while driving, highlighting the issue of distracted driving among bus operators.

More recently, on May 12, an AMTS bus operating on the Hatkeshwar-Ghuma route (151/3) was involved in a chain collision at the Star Bazar signal, where it hit and dragged several vehicles. This accident resulted in injuries to three people traveling in a car, further intensifying public concern about bus safety.

“The tragic accident at Bhulabhai Park Crossroad, which has since gone viral, underscores the urgent need for stricter safety measures,” said an AMC official. “The driver of the Route no. 13/1 bus involved in this incident has been removed from service and is currently in police custody.”

The AMC’s decision to lower the speed limit is seen as a proactive step to mitigate such risks. “Reducing the speed limit to 40 km/h for AMTS buses is a necessary measure to ensure the safety of both passengers and pedestrians,” said an AMTS spokesperson. “We have already communicated this to private bus operators and expect full compliance within the stipulated period.”

In addition to the new speed limit, AMC is also considering additional measures to improve road safety and prevent future accidents. These may include enhanced driver training programs, stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, and the installation of advanced monitoring systems on buses to track driver behavior in real-time.

“We are committed to making our roads safer,” added the AMC official. “This involves not only reducing speed limits but also ensuring that all drivers adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and safety.”

Public response to the new speed limit has been largely positive, with many residents expressing relief that steps are being taken to address the issue. “It’s high time that the authorities took action,” said Anil Patel, a local resident. “We see buses speeding recklessly every day, and it’s frightening. The new speed limit will hopefully make a big difference.”