Mumbai RTO finds no fault in fatal bus accident

RTO Finds No Fault in BEST Electric Bus Involved in Bhandup Accident

The Regional Transport Office (RTO) has reported no technical fault in the BEST electric bus linked to the fatal Bhandup accident. This finding challenges the driver’s claim that a mechanical failure caused the incident.

RTO Examination Report

The RTO’s examination revealed that the bus was mechanically sound. No issues were found in the braking system, handbrake, accelerator, or transmission. Deputy Regional Transport Officer Pallavi Kothawade stated, “The vehicle was absolutely perfect and no technical error was found during the inspection.”

Details of the Accident

This development occurs during the police investigation into the accident that resulted in the deaths of four pedestrians near Bhandup railway station on December 29. The driver, Santosh Ramesh Sawant, 52, previously claimed that the bus moved unexpectedly due to a faulty handbrake. However, police noted that the bus is an automatic-transmission electric vehicle that only moves when the accelerator is pressed. Sawant is currently in judicial custody.

Focus on Human Error

Police indicated that the RTO findings support the idea that driver input contributed to the accident. A senior officer stated, “With no mechanical defect found, the investigation will now focus on human error and compliance with standard operating procedures.”

Driver’s Defense

Sawant has denied any negligence, attributing the incident to the vehicle’s condition. Police have already questioned the previous driver as part of the investigation. Balasaheb Pawar, senior police inspector at Bhandup police station, confirmed, “The previous driver’s statement has been recorded and will be used in the charge sheet.”