PANAJI
A Kadamba bus driver endangered the safety of passengers and other commuters as he drove a crowded bus allegedly in an intoxicated state on Thursday.
The incident occurred after 6.30 pm when the driver, Elvis Rodriguez, drove the bus bearing registration number GA-03-X-0515 from the Panaji bus stand en route to Valpoi. On reaching the highway in the Old Goa police station jurisdiction, the alarmed passengers, witnessing the driver's dangerous behaviour, forced the bus to stop after he allegedly collided with a two-wheeler.
Witness passengers claimed the driver couldn't sit properly and was leaning while driving, showing clear signs that he was in an inebriated state. The Old Goa police were later called, who took him to the police station. He was subsequently arrested under section 279 of IPC and 185 of the MV Act for rash and negligent driving and under the influence of alcohol. The KTCL has also suspended him.
The passengers were stranded for over an hour until a replacement driver was sent by the KTCL. Many passengers demanded action against both the driver and conductor to ensure the act is not repeated.
