In a recent incident, Rafiqbhai A. Sheikh, the manager of the GSRTC Dhrol depot in Gujarat, has been suspended due to a serious lapse in duty. His suspension follows a viral post on social media regarding a bus incident that raised safety concerns. The suspension is effective immediately and is based on service regulation rules 80 and 82.
The problem began on July 18, 2025, when a bus operating on the Dwarka-Rajkot route experienced a tire blast. This incident caused damage to the bus’s internal structure, which could have endangered passengers. Despite the serious nature of the situation, Rafiqbhai did not take adequate steps to ensure the bus was repaired promptly.
Passengers’ safety is of utmost importance, and the bus should not have been allowed to operate in such a dangerous condition. The driver’s request for immediate repairs was ignored by Rafiqbhai, leading to the serious mishap. The incident was further exacerbated when details of the incident were shared on social media, damaging the reputation of the GSRTC.
As part of the suspension, Rafiqbhai will receive 50% of his salary during the suspension period. He is required to report daily to the ST Depot in Jamjodhpur from 9 AM to 5:30 PM. He is not allowed to leave the headquarters without prior permission from his superiors. This action reflects the GSRTC’s commitment to accountability and safety.
The viral post not only highlighted the negligence but also raised questions about the management of the GSRTC. It was a wake-up call for the organisation to reassess its procedures and ensure that such lapses do not occur in the future.
In recent years, the Gujarat State Transport Corporation (GSRTC) has invested over ₹166 crores to improve services and facilities for passengers. This includes the introduction of new buses and the inauguration of new bus stations and depots. However, incidents like this one underscore the need for continuous training and strict adherence to safety protocols among staff.
The GSRTC has launched 2,800 new buses since December 2022 in an effort to enhance public transportation. New bus stations and depots are also being built to cater to the growing needs of passengers. With the introduction of modern facilities, the GSRTC aims to become a more reliable choice for commuters.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety in public transport. The GSRTC must ensure that all vehicles are maintained properly and that staff are trained to handle emergencies effectively. The public expects reliable service from such institutions, and it is crucial for the GSRTC to uphold these standards.
The suspension of Rafiqbhai A. Sheikh is a step towards reinforcing the importance of safety and accountability within the GSRTC. It sends a clear message that negligence will not be tolerated, and the safety of passengers is the top priority. The GSRTC needs to learn from this incident and work towards preventing similar occurrences in the future.