Following 145 deaths in sleeper bus accidents over the past six months, the Indian government has introduced stricter safety norms for sleeper coaches. Only government-accredited manufacturers will be allowed to build them, and existing buses must be retrofitted with advanced safety features. Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari announced the measures to enhance passenger safety.
New Delhi, January 9, 2026: In the past six months, around 145 people have lost their lives in sleeper bus accidents across India, particularly those involving fires. In response, the central government has taken significant steps to bolster passenger safety. Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that henceforth, only automobile companies or manufacturers accredited by the central government will be permitted to construct sleeper buses. Local or manual body builders will no longer be allowed to do so.
Gadkari stated, "Now, sleeper buses can only be manufactured by those automobile companies or manufacturers who have received accreditation from the central government." The government believes this will improve manufacturing quality and safety standards, as travel agencies often commission buses from local builders without adhering to proper safety protocols.
Instructions have also been issued for existing sleeper buses. All such vehicles must be equipped with mandatory features including fire detection systems, emergency lighting, driver drowsiness alert systems (ADAS), emergency exits, and safety hammers. These additions are expected to aid passengers during emergencies.
Furthermore, all sleeper buses must comply with the AIS-052 bus body code and the modified bus body code, effective from September 1, 2025. Non-compliant buses will not be permitted on roads. AIS-052 is the Automotive Industry Standard that regulates bus design, structure, and safety requirements.
These regulations aim to enhance safety in long-distance sleeper bus services, preventing future tragedies and increasing overall reliability.
