Amaravati: The state government has intensified safety measures to prevent fire accidents in sleeper buses, transport minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy said in the Assembly on Tuesday.

Replying to a question raised by MLA Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy during Question Hour on incidents of fire in sleeper buses, the minister said that 16 government-owned and 835 private sleeper buses are currently registered in the State.

He said the transport department was conducting special inspections of sleeper buses and ensuring strict compliance with Rule 128 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules. The government was taking all necessary steps to prevent fire accidents and improve passenger safety in sleeper buses, he added.

The minister said stringent rules and preventive measures were being enforced to minimise accidents caused by human error. Transport officials were conducting regular checks to ensure that operators complied with prescribed safety standards.

On drunk driving, Ramprasad Reddy said the government was adopting a zero-tolerance approach and taking strict action against those found driving under the influence of alcohol.

He assured the Assembly that the government would continue to strengthen enforcement and safety measures to protect passengers travelling in sleeper buses.