Bus Driver’s Alcohol-Related Collapse Strands Passengers for Hours

A bus driver’s loss of consciousness due to alcohol consumption stranded passengers on the Vazhikkadavu–Bengaluru route for nearly five hours on the night of August 31, 2023. The driver, who was operating a private tourist bus, was found slumped over the vehicle’s bonnet after consuming excessive alcohol. The alarming situation unfolded as passengers became increasingly concerned when the bus grazed several vehicles while navigating through Kuttiyadi Churam.

The distressing incident was brought to the attention of the authorities after videos from the scene circulated on social media, prompting passengers to alert the police. A team from the Thirunelli police station responded and confirmed that the driver was under the influence of alcohol. Eyewitness accounts indicated that many passengers had suspected the driver’s condition well before the incident escalated.

Karnataka police took the driver, a native of Bengaluru, into custody following his collapse. The travel agency involved clarified that he was not the regular driver for the bus but rather a temporary replacement. Due to the driver’s incapacitation, another driver was arranged to ensure the passengers’ safe journey to Bengaluru.

The bus was carrying a significant number of individuals, including women and children, raising concerns about their safety during the incident. The travel agency has since faced scrutiny, as the incident highlights the importance of ensuring that drivers are fit for duty.

In the aftermath, authorities are likely to review regulations concerning driver qualifications and monitoring, particularly in the context of passenger safety. This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by impaired driving, particularly in the transportation of vulnerable groups.