In a significant move to regulate private bus and minibus services across the Kolkata metropolitan area and the whole of West Bengal, the transport department has mandated that bus conductors obtain licences within a specified timeframe, reported news agency PTI.

A senior transport department official informed PTI that Principal Secretary (Transport), Saumitra Mohan, issued a notification two days ago. The objective is to bring greater accountability to the role of conductors, who serve as a vital link between passengers and transport authorities.

"Conductors play a significant role in extending all kinds of support to commuters and are often the first person passengers turn to during emergencies, including incidents involving crimes against women," the official stated. He added, "While drivers have licences issued by the motor vehicles department, it is difficult to keep track of conductors, who are mostly recruited individually by bus owners or unions, and the department has no idea about their identity, antecedents, or required experience in the business."