Safety concerns in ST Buses? 9 of 137 Accidents in 2025 turn fatal

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Despite annual road safety drives by the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), accidents involving State Transport (ST) buses continue to be reported. In 2025, the division recorded 137 accidents, including nine fatalities, raising concerns over passenger safety.

ST buses remain the backbone of public transport, connecting rural and urban areas and carrying lakhs of passengers daily. However, increasing traffic congestion, poor road conditions, tight schedules and driver workload are cited as key causes behind the accidents.

Although annual safety campaigns, driver counselling and training workshops are conducted, accident numbers have not reduced significantly, questioning the effectiveness of preventive measures.

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₹1 Insurance cover from every ticket

An amount of Rs 1 is collected from every ticket towards insurance coverage, providing financial aid in case of mishaps. Drivers also undergo annual health check-ups, yet fatigue, long duty hours and stress are frequently flagged as contributing factors.

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Decline in fatal accidents, rise in minor ones

While minor and serious accidents have increased, fatal accidents have shown a decline compared to previous years. “ST travel is considered safe. Passenger safety remains our priority,” said Santosh Ghane, divisional traffic officer.

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Year-wise ST Bus Accidents (Division Data)

Year

Minor

Serious

Fatal

2019

61

47

15

2020

25

18

6

2021

45

28

9

2022

59

32

13

2023

73

35

10

2024

50

48

12

2025

75

53

9