AnyTime News 
Strict Orders on Overloading & Overspeeding, But Is the System Ready?
Two Drivers for Long-Route Buses — Implementation Challenges Loom
24×7 Control Room Announced, Ground Reality Under Watch
Anytime News Network.
Ahead of the Holi festival rush, the Uttar Pradesh transport administration appears to be relying heavily on strict directives and high-level review meetings to prevent chaos on the roads. Following a top-level review, Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh warned that any negligence during the festive season would not be tolerated. However, the recurring question remains — will directives alone be enough to prevent disorder?
Officials have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance against overloading, overspeeding, and driving without helmets or seat belts. Special enforcement drives are to be conducted across national and state highways. Experts, however, point out that the sudden surge in traffic during festivals often overwhelms enforcement mechanisms, limiting the actual impact of such campaigns.
The minister has ordered additional bus operations from February 28 to March 9, particularly for passengers traveling from Delhi toward eastern Uttar Pradesh. Extra buses have also been promised in major cities like Lucknow and Kanpur. Yet, concerns remain over the State Transport Corporation’s existing limitations — aging fleets, maintenance backlogs, and shortage of drivers and staff could hamper smooth implementation.
The directive mandating two drivers on long-distance buses aims to enhance passenger safety. While the move appears proactive, questions arise about whether adequate manpower is available to fulfill this order, especially when authorities are simultaneously pushing for 100% fleet deployment during the incentive period.
Strict action against drunk driving, mandatory breath analyzer checks, prohibition on carrying inflammable materials, and a ban on operating unfit buses have also been announced. Additionally, a 24×7 control room will remain operational, and officers have been instructed to stay in the field and respond to public calls promptly. Similar announcements in previous years, however, have often struggled to translate fully into on-ground results.
Festival seasons in Uttar Pradesh have historically witnessed spikes in road accidents and complaints of overcrowded buses and mismanagement. While the administration projects confidence through strong messaging and warnings, the real test will lie in effective execution rather than official declarations.
