In response to the recent Swargate ST station incident, which has raised serious concerns about women’s safety, the Maharashtra State Transport (ST) Corporation has decided to appoint IPS-level officers to oversee security. Additionally, a security guard committee will be formed to enhance vigilance, announced Minister of State for Transport Ms. Madhuri Misal after a high-level meeting on Saturday.
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The meeting, convened to review security measures at Swargate depot, included key officials such as DCP (Traffic) Mr. Amol Zende, ACP (Traffic) Ms. Ashwini Rakh, Regional Manager Ms. Anagha Bartakke, Divisional Controller Mr. Pramod Nehul, and representatives from the ST Corporation, police, and RTO departments.
Key Decisions Taken:
- Appointment of IPS Officers: IPS-level security officers will be assigned to the ST Corporation for stricter law enforcement.
- Increase in Security Staff: More personnel will be deployed at bus depots.
- Enhanced Surveillance: Additional CCTV cameras will be installed at Swargate station.
- Police Patrols: Regular police patrols will be intensified to prevent crimes.
- Strict Action on Negligence: Officials or contractors found responsible in the case audit will face strict action.
- Grievance Redressal System: A dedicated grievance redressal room will be set up at the ST bus stand.
- Passenger Complaint Helpline: A statewide toll-free number will be introduced for passenger grievances.
- Control on Private Buses: Unauthorized entry of private bus drivers into ST depots will be strictly regulated.
Additionally, Minister Misal announced that, as per the Central Government’s scrap policy, all old and unfit buses across Maharashtra depots will be scrapped by April 15, 2025.
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