Pune Rape Case: Government's Major Decision After Incident - GPS and CCTV in All ST Buses

Pune: In the wake of the shocking rape incident that occurred at the Swargate Bus Station in Pune, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has taken significant steps to ensure the safety of women passengers. The incident, where a young woman was raped in an MSRTC bus, has raised serious concerns about women's safety during travel.

The accused in this case is still on the run, with a reward of ₹1 lakh announced for information leading to his arrest. Following this incident, questions have been raised about the safety of women passengers on MSRTC buses, leading to widespread fear among women commuters. In response, a crucial meeting was held at the ministry regarding the safety of women passengers.

Government’s Major Decision: GPS and CCTV in All Buses

During the meeting, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that all MSRTC buses in Maharashtra would now be equipped with CCTV cameras and GPS tracking systems. This decision is part of a broader effort to improve the safety of women passengers in the state.

Addressing the media after the meeting, Minister Sarnaik said, "The incident is tragic, and such incidents should never happen in Maharashtra. I urge all women passengers to continue using MSRTC buses as they always have, but with the assurance that we are taking steps to ensure their safety. We have given instructions to install CCTV cameras and GPS tracking systems in all buses for passenger safety. Furthermore, we will also begin using AI technology at bus stations in the future."

Key Points from the Meeting:

• CCTV cameras and GPS tracking will be made mandatory in all buses.
• Efforts will be made to increase the number of female security personnel in buses and stations.
• All bus depots will undergo an audit to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• An IPS officer will be appointed in the Transport Department to oversee operations.
• Scrap vehicles in bus depots will be removed by April 15.
• The government will pursue the implementation of the Shakti Law to ensure women’s safety.
• Cleanliness at bus depots will be prioritized.

Accused Still on the Run

The accused in the Pune rape case, Dattatray Ramdas Gade (37), is still at large. Pune police have formed 13 teams to search for him. Since the incident occurred on Tuesday morning, the police are working tirelessly to track him down. Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has confirmed that a reward of ₹1 lakh will be given to anyone providing information leading to Gade’s arrest.

Public Reaction and Government Response

The rape incident has deeply shaken the local community and sparked protests from women commuters demanding stronger security measures in public transport. The government's swift response to implement these changes aims to restore confidence among passengers, especially women, ensuring that they can travel safely in MSRTC buses across the state.

This decisive action by the Maharashtra government marks a significant step in addressing the growing concerns over women’s safety in public transport. With the installation of CCTV and GPS tracking in all MSRTC buses, the government hopes to deter potential criminals and provide a safer travel experience for women across the state. The pursuit of the accused continues, with police working diligently to bring him to justice.