By AZE.US
Loud music on public transport has again sparked debate in Azerbaijan, with passengers questioning whether bus drivers may choose what everyone in the vehicle has to listen to.
Under existing regulations, a driver’s personal preferences cannot take priority over passenger comfort and road safety. Music or video content that inconveniences people in the vehicle should not be played.
On regular urban routes, if the driver does not have a separate enclosed cabin, audio equipment may be used only for purposes directly related to passenger transportation. This means a driver may not play music in the bus simply for personal entertainment.
Different rules apply to intercity, interdistrict and international routes. Audio and video equipment may be used for entertainment during longer journeys, but only with the mutual consent of passengers.
Opinions among passengers remain divided. Some say quiet music, films or comedy programs can make a long journey more pleasant and help reduce stress. Others argue that passengers can use their own phones and headphones, making it unnecessary to impose the same content on everyone.
Drivers also acknowledge that loud music can become a distraction, preventing them from concentrating fully on the road and monitoring conditions inside the vehicle.
Because inspectors cannot continuously check every bus, passengers play an important role in reporting violations. They are advised to first ask the driver to lower or turn off the music. If the request is ignored, the incident may be documented and reported to the transport operator or the relevant authorities.
The central principle is clear: music on public transport is not solely the driver’s choice. Passenger consent, comfort and safety must come first.
AZE.US