Kalaburagi: A Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC) bus allegedly operated without functioning headlights during a night journey from Kalaburagi to Chincholi, forcing the conductor to use a mobile phone torch to assist the driver. A video of the incident has gone viral on social media, raising concerns over passenger safety and the roadworthiness of public transport vehicles.
Incident reportedly occurred on late-night service
The incident is reported to have taken place on the last scheduled bus service from Kalaburagi City to Chincholi, a distance of around 90 kilometres.
According to reports, the bus continued its journey despite the headlights malfunctioning, leaving the driver to navigate dark stretches of road with limited visibility.
It remains unclear at what stage of the journey the headlights stopped functioning.
Viral video raises safety concerns
A video circulating on social media shows the driver operating the bus on a pitch-dark road while the conductor uses the torchlight from a mobile phone in an apparent attempt to improve visibility.
The footage has sparked concern among social media users, with many questioning how the bus was allowed to continue operating without essential safety equipment.
Passengers on board reportedly had little choice but to remain on the bus and complete their journey under the prevailing conditions.
Questions over vehicle maintenance
The incident has renewed concerns over the maintenance and inspection of public transport vehicles, particularly those operating on night routes.
Functioning headlights are a mandatory safety requirement for all vehicles, and operating without them significantly increases the risk of accidents, especially on poorly lit roads.
The viral video has prompted calls for authorities to investigate the incident and determine whether proper maintenance checks were carried out before the bus was put into service.
Authorities yet to respond
As of now, KKRTC has not issued an official statement regarding the incident or clarified the circumstances under which the bus continued its journey without working headlights.
It also remains unclear whether any action has been initiated against those responsible or whether the vehicle has since been withdrawn for repairs.
Further details are awaited.