Udupi: A fight reportedly broke out between the drivers and operators of two private buses over an overtaking issue in Padubidri town, with one of the buses being parked across the highway, disrupting traffic and triggering public outrage.
According to eyewitnesses, an argument erupted between the staff of the two buses following a dispute over overtaking. The altercation soon escalated into a heated confrontation in the middle of the road.
Bus parked across highway disrupts traffic
During the incident, one of the bus was allegedly parked across the highway in the heart of Padubidri town, causing a temporary traffic jam and inconvenience to motorists and pedestrians.
The incident drew the attention of local residents and commuters, many of whom expressed anger over the irresponsible behaviour of the bus staff.
Traffic movement on the busy stretch was affected for some time before normalcy was restored.
Public questions repeated incidents
Residents pointed out that this was not the first time that drivers and operators of private buses had engaged in such behaviour in Padubidri.
According to locals, similar incidents involving reckless driving, overtaking disputes and confrontations among private bus staff have occurred on several occasions in the past.
The recurrence of such incidents has prompted people to question the prevailing law and order situation and demand stricter action against errant bus crews.
Many residents expressed concern that repeated acts of indiscipline by private bus operators could pose a serious threat to public safety.
Police intervene, issue warning
The incident also led to public dissatisfaction being voiced before the police, with several people demanding stern action against those responsible for disrupting traffic and causing inconvenience to commuters.
Police intervened in the matter and warned the bus driver and operator involved in the altercation before sending them away.
No injuries were reported in the incident.
The latest episode has once again brought the spotlight on the need for stricter enforcement of traffic rules and greater accountability among private bus operators to prevent such incidents from recurring.