India, Oct. 13 -- Sir,

This refers to the serial accident on Chamundi Hill Road (SOM dated Sept. 27). According to an eyewitness account, there was a sudden increase in the speed of the bus and the driver was unable to bring it under control.

The safety instruction from vehicle manufacturers for driving on ghat (hill) roads is very clear: While descending a slope, the same gear used for climbing that particular incline must be used. This ensures that the vehicle's speed is controlled by the engine.

I have often seen drivers becoming complacent while driving downhill. They use the top gear and rely solely on the brake to control speed. In this case, it appears to be the same. Otherwise, there would have been no reason for a sudden surge...