Kochi private bus crews continue violence; commuters demand stricter enforcement over ID cards
A private bus driver was attacked with an iron bangle at Kakkanad Municipal bus stand in Kochi on Monday night after allegedly arriving one minute late and entering another bus's scheduled time slot. Employees of the competing bus allegedly assaulted him. The Thrikkakara police registered a case on Tuesday.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about private bus crew conduct. While police are completing verification of bus employees and issuing identity cards by month-end, commuters argue this falls short of addressing root issues. They point to dangerous practices like drivers and staff carrying iron or steel bangles, iron rods kept inside buses, rash driving, and abusive behaviour on routes.
Recent incidents include a private bus allegedly hitting a 67-year-old scooter rider near Elamkulam while chasing another bus. Commuters demand focused enforcement against traffic violations and weapons rather than relying solely on identification measures.
