Aus News 24: Bus drivers get self-defence classes

Bus drivers will be given self-defence classes and taught techniques to avert any potential violence on public transport. Drivers claim that overcrowding on bus is the main reason to raise temper on buses. Report shows that there has been increasing assaults on STA bus drivers compared to previous year. Drivers have been bashed, spat on and abused by those furious passengers. Besides, bus drivers are more exposed to violence as they often have to handle those drunken and unruly passengers during night time once the rail services finish. Only a small percentage of private bus drivers are given this self-defence training and the Transport Workers Union is trying to make it compulsory and publicly funded.

Comment:
I often hear of passengers being abused or bullied by drivers but rarely for another way round. Maybe it is not so prevalent and it is good to initiate a self-defence training for the bus drivers to defuse the violent situation. However, it has to be continuously and consistently supported by the authorities. The community should also realise their responsibilities of being patient and disciplined. As the use of public transport is getting more significant nowadays, cooperation from all parties is indeed necessary to prevent further problematic issues from rising.