Police will step up patrols in Whitfield after buses came under attack from stone throwing yobs for the second time in two months.
Xplore Dundee was forced to withdraw its 9, 10 and 33 services from Lothian Cresent following the latest incident on Tuesday night.
The windows on two vehicles were damaged by a barrage of rocks, prompting the bus company to divert buses via Whitfield Drive amid concerns over passenger safety.
It is the second time in the space of a few weeks that vehicles have come under attack in Lothian Crescent. Missiles were thrown at the buses at the end of October.
Youths were reported to have climbed into a construction site and hurled missiles from there.
Police Scotland officers met representatives from Xplore Dundee on Wednesday to discuss ways to stop buses coming under attack.
North East Labour councillor Brian Gordon – himself a former bus driver – also attended the meeting and said he was optimistic “positive” action would be taken to protect buses, drivers and their passengers.
He said although he could not divulge exact details of the proposed police operation, he expects there will be an increased presence in Whitfield to protect buses.
Mr Gordon said: “Many suggestions were put forward with a view to protecting the safety of drivers and passengers. It was a really positive meeting with police and Xplore.”
Mr Gordon added throwing stones at buses was “very dangerous”.
“I know what the consequences can be if a driver is distracted,” he said.
“What these kids don’t realise is it could be their families on the buses that are being targeted.”
North east SNP councillor Willie Sawers added: “These incidents are very concerning. I hope the police are able to catch the people that are responsible and they are dealt with appropriately.
“Parents need to teach their children that throwing stones at buses can have serious consequences.
“Passengers can get glass injuries and if the bus crashes then people could be seriously injured.”
A Police Scotland spokesman said: “We received a call at 7.45pm to Lothian Crescent.
“Inquiries are continuing to trace a number of youths.”
Passengers slammed the stone-throwing thugs. Alexander Brian Motion said: “This is nothing new — it’s been going on for years. As usual, no one gets caught.”
Yinyee Chemg warned that someone was “going to get hurt”.
Last year Xplore launched a safety video demonstrating the serious consequences of throwing stones at passing buses.
The video was created in partnership with Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Dundee City Council.
