India, Sept. 9 -- Pune

In a major step towards ensuring passenger safety, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) has introduced strict new rules banning bus drivers, both PMPML employees and private contractors, from using mobile phones or headphones while on duty. The decision was made during a board meeting today, prompted by multiple reports of drivers engaging in phone conversations while operating buses.

According to the PMPML administration, one particularly alarming incident occurred when a driver, distracted by a phone call, caused an accident. This highlighted the urgent need for stricter enforcement of safety measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.

Under the new policy, drivers are required to depo...