Transport Minister and ST Corporation Chairman Pratap Sarnaik has issued strict instructions to immediately suspend ST drivers and other employees found consuming alcohol while on duty, with no scope for leniency. During a surprise inspection of the Parel bus depot in Mumbai, Sarnaik visited the rest rooms meant for drivers and conductors. He found several empty liquor bottles in different areas and noticed the smell of alcohol from some staff members. Angered by this serious lapse, the minister strongly reprimanded senior officials present on the spot for failing to maintain discipline and ensure safety standards within the state transport system.
Addressing officials, Sarnaik said the government is making continuous efforts to provide better facilities at rest houses for drivers and conductors posted outside their hometowns. However, incidents of alcohol consumption at such places are not just acts of indiscipline but extremely dangerous behaviour that directly endangers passengers’ lives. An employee reporting for duty after drinking does not merely risk accidents but also damages the reputation of ST as a safe and reliable mode of transport. He warned that such irresponsible staff must be dismissed from service after a proper inquiry.
The minister also held the ST security and vigilance department responsible for allowing such misconduct to continue unchecked. He ordered departmental inquiries against negligent officers and directed that strict action be taken against them. Sarnaik further instructed that breath analyser tests be made mandatory for all on-duty employees, especially drivers, and that anyone testing positive be suspended immediately. A separate departmental inquiry committee will probe the reported irregularities and act based on its findings. During the visit, Sarnaik also reviewed cleanliness, toilets and bus operations, and instructed officials to remain more alert about passenger safety and facilities.