Biker injured as govt bus roof ripped off in wind falls on him in Tirupur

Tirupur: The metal sheet over the roof of a govt bus ripped off in gusty winds near Koduvai and fell on a two-wheeler rider travelling behind, leaving him with minor injuries and triggering shock among commuters.The incident occurred on the evening of May 22, when the govt town bus (route no. 15A) was heading to Tirupur from Koduvai with passengers. "After travelling a short distance, the metal sheet over the roof ripped off in strong winds near Sengattupalayam and landed on the National Highway. A part of it fell on a man riding a two-wheeler behind the bus," an official source said.The biker was lucky to escape with minor injuries. Locals said a major mishap was avoided, as the bus was passing through a rural stretch. "Had it happened in a congested area, the consequences could have been severe."Passengers on the bus were later shifted to another bus. A passenger said many govt buses were in poor condition and running with loud mechanical noise, and urged authorities to ensure passenger safety and that buses were properly maintained.Ramalingam, technical manager, Tirupur state transport corporation, said an inquiry was under way to determine whether wind caused the roof to detach. He said the bus was repaired and sent for fitness certification. "Inspections will be conducted to identify buses with defects and vehicles will only be operated with a fitness certificate."