A BMTC electric bus operator was filmed handling his mobile device while maneuvering through heavy traffic on Lalbagh Road, Bengaluru. The incident, recorded during peak hours, enraged commuters and sparked widespread online outrage.

The video, shared by Karnataka Portfolio on X (formerly Twitter), showcased the driver scrolling on his phone while steering through the busy street. Public criticism poured in, questioning the driver’s disregard for safety and accountability. Bengaluru Traffic Police immediately responded by notifying the Basavanagudi Traffic Police Station for further investigation.

Online reactions highlighted similar unsafe practices, with users reporting instances of auto-rickshaw drivers juggling multiple phones—one for work-related bookings and another for streaming videos—while navigating crowded roads. One user remarked on the frequent occurrence of such behaviors in areas like DJ Halli, Fraser Town, and Shivajinagar, emphasizing the growing concern for public safety.

This incident draws parallels to a 2024 case where a BMTC bus, losing control on the Hebbal flyover, collided with bikers and several vehicles. Though lives were spared, multiple injuries and vehicle damages underscored the risks of negligent driving.

With repeated instances of recklessness among public transport operators, calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws have intensified. Ensuring the safety of commuters and pedestrians must remain a priority for city authorities.