On Wednesday, the government of Chhattisgarh (India) launched an advanced command and control center to enhance safety measures for women and children using private passenger and school buses, as reported by newindianexpress.com.
The state’s transport department has initiated the installation of GPS-based vehicle tracking software on dedicated servers. This technology is crucial not only for the precise location of vehicles but also for the integration of panic buttons within buses. These features are installed to offer immediate assistance to women and others in potentially dangerous or unexpected situations while serving as a substantial deterrent to criminal activity within these vehicles.
Approximately 12,000 privately owned passenger buses and over six thousand private school buses operate across various routes within Chhattisgarh, all set to benefit from these heightened safety protocols.
CM Bhupesh Baghel spearheaded the inauguration of the GPS-based vehicle tracking software, primarily focusing on ensuring women passengers’ safety. The installed GPS system provides accurate, real-time data on both the location of buses and their respective routes. This real-time information is a pivotal step towards enhancing safety protocols. In the case of emergencies or accidents, passengers can use the panic button to send immediate notifications to both the police and transport control rooms. This activation engages the state’s emergency response support system, Dial 112 services, prompting quick action from the staff at the nearest police station.
Dipanshu Kabra, the Transport Commissioner, remarked, “Implementing GPS systems and panic buttons in private buses is a significant move by the Chhattisgarh government. This initiative allows passengers to access crucial real-time information on the bus’s location during emergencies, providing a necessary layer of safety during travel.”
Furthermore, the Nirbhaya Command Centre was established by the state government. This center is responsible for overseeing and managing the newly implemented system, focusing on improving security measures for public transportation. A notable feature of this initiative is the route mapping of school buses, designed to initiate automatic alerts if there’s any deviation from preset routes, playing a crucial role in ensuring children’s safety during transit.
Introducing these GPS systems represents more than a mere technological advancement; it signifies a steadfast commitment to ensuring the safety and security of passengers. A safer and more secure environment for women and children using public transportation is established by facilitating real-time tracking and immediate alert mechanisms. This move reflects the government’s proactive approach to public safety and is a significant stride towards crafting a secure, responsive public transportation network.
