Authors : Malleshi H.; Y. Muni Raju

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 11 - November

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25nov1469

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Abstract : The rapid rise of private sleeper buses in Karnataka has transformed the way people travel between cities, making overnight trips more comfortable and convenient for travelers. However, fires, crashes, and mechanical failures that repeatedly occur indicate that there are still issues with vehicle safety and adherence to regulations. This paper critically analyzes the relevance of Safety Audits commonly utilized for road infrastructure to the sleeper bus transportation system in Karnataka. Utilizing the Road Safety Audit framework established by Huvarinen et al. (2017) and situating it within the Indian regulatory context, the study examines the integration of safety audits with established standards, including AIS-119 and the Motor Vehicles Act (1988, as amended in 2019). The study argues that regular, organized, and interdisciplinary safety audits can proactively identify mechanical, operational, and human-factor risks in private sleeper buses, thereby preventing accidents and enhancing public confidence in long-distance bus transportation. The paper concludes by proposing a state-specific audit model and offering policy recommendations to improve operational safety and compliance by fostering collaboration between regulatory agencies and private operators.

Keywords : Safety Audit, Night Travel, AIS-119 (Automotive Industry System), Motor Vehicles Act, Passenger Safety, Audit Framework, Accident Prevention, Transportation Governance.

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