Pune: The recent Swargate ST depot incident, which raised serious concerns about women’s safety, has prompted swift action from the government. Minister of State for Transport Madhuri Misal announced that an IPS-rank security officer will be appointed in the State Transport (ST) as part of a newly formed Security Guard Committee to ensure better safety measures.
Following the incident, Minister Misal held a review meeting on Saturday with senior officials, including DCP Amol Zhende, ACP (Traffic) Ashwini Rakh, Regional Manager Anagha Bartakke, and Divisional Controller Pramod Nehul, along with ST, police, and RTO officials.
Speaking about the meeting, Misal emphasized that security personnel will be increased at ST depots, and the number of CCTV cameras at Swargate bus station will be doubled. She also assured that necessary immediate measures will be implemented to enhance women’s safety. Any officers or contractors found responsible during the security audit of the recent incident will face strict action.
Additionally, a grievance redressal unit will be set up at ST bus stations, and a statewide toll-free helpline will be introduced for complaints. The illegal entry of private buses into ST bus stations will also be curbed through stricter enforcement measures.
Furthermore, Misal announced that, in line with the central government’s scrap policy, all obsolete buses from various state depots will be scrapped by April 15.
