A major accident occurred on Friday morning when a Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) electric bus overturned near the Sector 17 bus stand. The incident left four passengers with minor injuries, while 11 others narrowly escaped harm.

The injured were immediately taken to the Government Multi-Specialty Hospital, Sector 16, where they received first aid. Thankfully, none of the injuries were serious.

Driver Dismissed After Accident

Following the crash, the transport department terminated the services of the bus driver, Sultan Singh. Officials cited safety concerns and preliminary evidence pointing to driver negligence.

How the Accident Happened

According to officials, the incident took place around 10:15 am. The bus was traveling from Manimajra to Sector 17 when it met with the accident.

Eyewitnesses reported that the bus was moving at high speed. While taking a sharp turn near the bus stand, one of its front tyres climbed onto a raised pavement, causing the vehicle to lose balance and topple. The impact shattered the front windshield completely.

“There was a loud crash when the bus toppled and suddenly there was panic all around. Fortunately, the injuries were not severe,” said a bystander who helped rescue trapped passengers.

Eyewitnesses vs Driver’s Claim

While bystanders and CCTV footage confirmed that speeding caused the mishap, the driver told officials that the accident happened due to a mechanical fault. He claimed the brakes failed and the bus suddenly accelerated on its own, leaving him unable to control it.

To determine the exact cause, the police have requested a detailed technical inspection of the bus from CTU.

The audit will include:

• Braking system

• Steering

• Suspension

• Overall roadworthiness

Officials said the findings will help establish whether driver negligence or a mechanical failure caused the accident.

No FIR Filed Yet

Police confirmed that no FIR has been registered so far, as no passenger has filed a complaint. The next steps will depend on the outcome of the technical report and whether anyone comes forward to report the incident.

CTU’s Statement and Safety Measures

CTU officials said that Chandigarh’s electric buses operate under a kilometre scheme. The buses belong to Volvo-Eicher, which also provides the drivers, while CTU employs the conductors.

Transport Director Praduman Singh assured strict action. “Passenger safety is our top priority,” he said. He also announced that a fine will be imposed on the company, in addition to the driver’s dismissal.

Union Defends Driver

Meanwhile, Dharminder Singh Rahi, chief patron of the CTU Workers’ Union, defended the driver. “The accident occurred while he was trying to save something and negotiating the turn. There is no mechanical fault in the buses,” Rahi said, countering the driver’s claim of brake failure.