Every time a green bus is involved in an accident, the conversation in Guwahati follows a familiar pattern. Allegations of rash driving, dangerous overtaking and reckless behaviour dominate public discourse, with green bus drivers often finding themselves at the centre of criticism. While recent accidents have once again raised serious concerns about road safety, they have also prompted stricter enforcement by the Guwahati Traffic Police.
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On July 7, the Traffic Police directed all city buses, including green buses, to remain in the left lane and refrain from overtaking. Officials also warned that violations would invite strict action, not only against drivers and conductors but also against those responsible for route management. Driving licences of erring drivers are being seized on the spot and forwarded to the District Transport Officer (DTO) or Motor Vehicle Inspector (MVI) for further action. Authorities have also reiterated that displaying a valid driving licence inside buses is mandatory.
But amid the criticism and enforcement, one question remains: are green bus drivers alone responsible for the city's road safety concerns?
To understand the issue beyond public perception, GPlus spoke to several green bus drivers operating across Guwahati. While none of them denied that irresponsible driving exists within the system, they argued that the reality on the roads is far more complex. From congested streets and illegally parked vehicles to financial pressures and the practical challenges of driving large passenger buses, the drivers say several factors influence their daily work
The conversations with green bus drivers reveal that Guwahati's road safety concerns cannot be viewed through a single lens. While the drivers acknowledged that irresponsible driving by some members of the fleet has contributed to the negative perception surrounding green buses, they argued that several other factors continue to shape their daily experience behind the wheel. Congested roads, illegal parking at bus stops, unpredictable movement of two-wheelers, increasing traffic volume and fixed daily collection targets all add to the pressure of operating public transport in the city.
Their accounts do not dismiss the importance of accountability. Instead, they suggest that improving road safety requires a more comprehensive approach, one that combines stricter enforcement against negligent driving with better traffic management, regulated parking and improved public transport infrastructure. As Guwahati continues to expand and vehicle numbers grow, balancing commuter safety with the realities of public transport operations will remain a challenge. Whether the latest traffic measures bring lasting change will depend not only on how bus drivers respond, but also on how every stakeholder, from authorities to motorists and commuters, shares responsibility for making the city's roads safer.
