Safety remains a critical concern in Nepal’s public transportation system, with issues ranging from reckless driving to lack of passenger security. Fortunately, neighboring countries have pioneered innovative safety measures that Nepal can adapt to improve commuter safety and confidence.
Technology-Driven Safety: Intelligent Transport Systems
(ITS)
Bangladesh is implementing Intelligent Transport Systems
(ITS) on highways to monitor vehicle movement remotely. ITS uses software
and devices to track speed, detect reckless driving, and provide real-time
warnings to drivers3. This technology enables authorities to enforce traffic
rules promptly and respond quickly to accidents.
Nepal could adopt ITS to monitor buses and tempos, reducing
speeding and dangerous driving, which are major causes of accidents.
Artificial Intelligence for Driver Fatigue Monitoring
Sri Lanka is introducing legislation to use artificial
intelligence (AI) to monitor driver fatigue, a leading cause of crashes in
the country4. AI systems can detect signs of drowsiness and alert
drivers or supervisors before accidents occur.
Implementing AI-based fatigue monitoring in Nepal’s
long-distance and urban buses could significantly reduce accidents caused by
driver exhaustion.
Enhanced Surveillance and Passenger Safety
Delhi’s public transport system has taken major steps to
improve safety, especially for women passengers. Measures include:
- Reserved coaches for women with clear signage and CCTV surveillance.
- Panic buttons and quick reaction teams to handle emergencies.
- Gender sensitization training for bus crews.
- Deployment of female security personnel and special “Ladies Buses” with reserved seating5.
Nepal’s public transport could benefit from installing CCTV
cameras, panic buttons, and training staff in gender sensitivity to create a
safer environment for all passengers.
Community Engagement and Awareness
Singapore’s SMRT transit system conducts regular safety
roadshows and educational programs to promote safe commuting practices among
passengers, including vulnerable groups like children with special needs6. Such community engagement fosters a culture of safety
and respect.
Conclusion
By adopting a combination of technology-driven monitoring
(ITS, AI), enhanced surveillance, gender-sensitive policies, and community
engagement, Nepal can significantly improve public transport safety. These
proven measures from neighboring countries offer practical, scalable solutions
adaptable to Nepal’s context.
References
1 Public Transportation Issues, Challenges and Way Forward, b360nepal.com
2 Cities100: Singapore - Boosting Public Transit While Limiting Cars, c40.org
5 Reimagining Public Transport: Creating a Safe and Inclusive Delhi, orfonline.org
3 Government to Introduce ITS Tech to Improve Road Safety, thefinancialexpress.com.bd
4 Sri Lanka to Implement AI for Safer Roads, devdiscourse.com
6 Encouraging Public Safety, smrt.com.sg
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