Quick-Thinking Cop Saves Students from Potential Bus Mishap

A vigilant traffic policeman in Kalyan, Thane, identified an intoxicated bus driver transporting 26 students to a football tournament. The officer's prompt action prevented a possible accident. The driver was fined, and a replacement bus was arranged to safely transport the students to Virar.

An alert traffic policeman in Kalyan, Thane, has averted a potential tragedy by stopping an inebriated bus driver carrying 26 schoolchildren to a football tournament, authorities reported on Saturday.

The incident unfolded on Friday at Subhash Chowk when Constable Suresh Patil observed the bus weaving erratically despite a clear road on its journey from Ulhasnagar to Virar in neighboring Palghar.

Patil halted the bus and administered a breathalyzer test to driver Surendra Gautam, which confirmed intoxication. 'Without Patil's swift actions, an accident could have occurred,' said Kalyan traffic police senior inspector Rajesh Shirsat, adding the driver was fined and the bus impounded. A substitute bus was promptly arranged for the students.

(With inputs from agencies.)