Emergency on Buses: CNT Relies on Collective Vigilance
Title: Emergency on Buses: CNT Relies on Collective Vigilance
Date: Sunday, 12/10/2025 - 16:00
In response to a rise in reported incidents within public transportation, the National Transport Company (CNT) is implementing a new emergency protocol aimed at enhancing the safety of passengers and staff. In cases of aggression, theft, or accidents, there is a clear directive: call 133 without delay.
"Your swift reaction can contribute to the safety of this bus." This message, prominently displayed inside CNT buses, signals the launch of a citizen vigilance initiative. Given the increasing occurrences of incivility, thefts, and assaults in public transport, authorities are now prioritizing rapid intervention and coordination among passengers, staff, and law enforcement.
Discussions leading to this initiative began in March during a meeting chaired by Minister Osman Mahomed. The Emergency Response Transport Squad (represented by Police Superintendents Veerasamy and Ramdour), along with the National Land Transport Authority (NLTA), were also present.
The new emergency protocol encourages anyone who witnesses or is a victim of an incident on board—whether it be suspicious activity, medical distress, or an assault—to immediately contact the police operations center at 133. This number, which has seen little use until now, is becoming the official alert channel for all public network buses.
Drivers and conductors have also received strict instructions: remain calm, reassure passengers, and wait for law enforcement guidance. According to sources, this measure aims to "create a shared culture of safety," where everyone plays a role in prevention.
A reassuring protocol
"Just knowing that a protocol exists is comforting, especially since some passengers on the route to the West display incivility towards the staff," shares a regular commuter on the Port-Louis–Geoffroy (Bambous) line. In CNT buses, vigilance is now everyone's responsibility.
Speaking over the phone on Saturday, Minister Osman Mahomed stated that CNT is setting an example. "We are calling on various bus companies to follow suit. This will significantly reduce instances of incivility on buses," declared the Minister of Land Transport and Light Rail.
The government plans to profoundly modernize the country's bus network. A bill on public transport services is currently in preparation with the goal of establishing a more efficient, transparent system focused on passenger safety.
With onboard cameras, digital management, and contactless payments, the National Transport Corporation is entering a new era. The Cabinet has recently approved the drafting of the Bus Services Bill, intended to reform and modernize the public network.
Key measures include strengthened obligations for drivers and conductors, implementation of codes of conduct, and revision of licensing procedures for operators. The government also aims to expedite administrative processes related to disciplinary matters and appeals.
The reform also includes a fleet management system to allow real-time tracking of operator performance, regulation of inspectors and traffic agents, and the widespread installation of CCTV cameras on buses.
Bus Services Bill
Other major innovations include the creation of an integrated information system for passengers—with live schedules and tracking—and the shift towards cashless payment.
Finally, operators' accounts will now be accessible to the Ministry of Transport and the National Land Transport Authority to facilitate enhanced audits and checks.
According to the Minister of Land Transport and Light Rail, other substantive reforms are already underway, in line with the provisions of the Bus Services Bill. This bill received approval from the Cabinet last week, enabling the Ministry to send drafting instructions to the State Law Office for finalization.
"This law will notably provide for the establishment of a code of conduct for staff—owners, station managers, conductors, drivers—as well as for passengers," emphasizes Osman Mahomed.