RTC Sets Up Command Control Centre to Ensure Passenger Safety

The State Road Transport Corporation has established a Command Control Centre at Bus Bhavan in Hyderabad to continuously monitor passenger safety and bus operations. CCTV cameras installed in buses and bus stations, along with GPS trackers fitted in buses, have been connected to the centre. This will enable officials to monitor bus speeds, routes and punctuality in real time. Authorities will also be able to observe driver behaviour, including whether drivers use mobile phones while driving. The initiative is expected to strengthen passenger safety and improve operational efficiency. Although the centre is currently operating on a trial basis, it is expected to become fully operational soon. In the event of a fire or a technical failure that leaves a bus stranded midway, the control centre can promptly alert the concerned officials. This will help them deploy technical teams, arrange replacement buses and take steps to minimise inconvenience to passengers.

The Command Control Centre will also help improve the safety of women, senior citizens and other passengers by enabling officials to monitor CCTV footage and respond to suspicious incidents, thefts and cases of harassment. The system is expected to be particularly useful for electric buses. Under the PM E-DRIVE scheme, the RTC plans to introduce a total of 2,200 electric buses in phases. At present, the corporation operates 1,050 electric buses, including 540 in Hyderabad and 510 in the districts. As these buses occasionally encounter technical problems, connecting their data to the control centre will help officials identify faults quickly and arrange timely repairs. Once the centre at Bus Bhavan becomes fully operational, it will also be linked to the Integrated Command Control Centre in Banjara Hills. This integration is expected to support traffic diversions and the systematic management of bus services during festivals, fairs and large processions.