BMTC on killing spree?

BANGALORE: With the increase in fatal accidents by  BMTC buses, the corporation seems to be living up to its earlier accident-prone image and has also earned the title killer BMTC. Last year around 65 persons were killed and 300 were injured in accidents involving BMTC buses.While drivers allege that these accidents are taking place because the buses are old and there is mechanical failure, officials have another version. “Most of the accidents take place due to pedestrians’ mistakes and rash riding by two-wheelers. Accidents due to driver negligence and mechanical failure is rare,” said M P Prabhudas, Chief Traffic Manager (Operations). “Drivers will be under suspension as long as the inquiry lasts. In non-fatal cases, we impose penalties and keep them on duty after the inquiry is completed,” he said. He opined that accidents are caused due to many reasons  and cannot be drivers’ fault always. “If the driver is found guilty in a fatal accident, he will be suspended after the inquiry,” he added.