So how fast was this UPSI bus actually going when it crashed?
The real speed of the bus involved in the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 15 students from Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) has finally been made public. Investigations have confirmed that the vehicle was traveling at a staggering 117km/h at the time of the incident, nearly double the legal speed limit for buses on that road.
This horrifying revelation comes after months of public concern, speculation and demands for transparency surrounding the tragic crash that occurred in June of last year. The accident sent shockwaves through the nation, as the loss of young lives, many of whom were on their way to or from academic activities, prompted a national conversation about road safety standards.
Moreover, this goes particularly for public transport vehicles such as buses that carry students and other vulnerable passengers. According to official sources, the legal speed limit for heavy vehicles like buses in that area is significantly lower than 117 km/h, likely between 60 to 80 km/h depending on the road classification.
This makes the confirmed speed all the more alarming, suggesting clear negligence or recklessness on the part of the driver or transport operator. The bus’s excessive speed not only violated traffic regulations but drastically increased the risk and severity of the crash. Authorities are now facing pressure to take firm action against those responsible, whether it’s the driver, the bus company, or both.
Investigations are also ongoing to determine if there were other contributing factors, such as mechanical failure, poor road conditions, or inadequate maintenance practices. However, the speed alone is being highlighted as a major factor in the scale of the tragedy.
On top of that, families of the victims have expressed outrage and heartbreak as the details come to light. Many are calling for stricter enforcement of road safety laws, improved vehicle monitoring systems and mandatory speed limiters for public transport buses.
In response, transport authorities have pledged to review current regulations and improve oversight mechanisms, particularly when it comes to vehicles used for school and university transport.
The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of traffic law violations and the importance of enforcing safety standards to protect lives, especially those of students and young people who rely on public transportation daily.
