A key announcement during the meeting was the January 31 deadline for the mandatory installation of CCTV cameras in all school buses
In a recent meeting with school authorities, Transport Commissioner Vishesh Mahajan underscored the importance of rigorous safety audits for vehicles used to ferry students. The meeting aimed to ensure that schools actively participate in enforcing safety norms and maintaining vehicle fitness to safeguard student commuters.
A key announcement during the meeting was the January 31 deadline for the mandatory installation of CCTV cameras in all school buses. The measure, in line with Supreme Court directives, is expected to monitor drivers and assisting staff, ensuring student safety during transit.
School authorities were instructed to equip all buses with functional speed governors, capping the speed at 40 km/h, as per established guidelines. Violations, particularly concerning overloading and speeding, would lead to immediate seizure of vehicles, according to a spokesman for the Transport Department.
To tackle underage driving, schools were urged to take proactive steps, including restricting students from driving two-wheelers or cars on or near school premises. The authorities were also directed to organise counselling sessions for parents, warning them about the risks and legal repercussions of permitting underage driving.
Transport Commissioner Mahajan emphasised that the responsibility of safety extended beyond school-owned buses to private vehicles hired by parents. These vehicles must also adhere to mandatory safety standards, such as having emergency exits, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, GPS trackers, seat belts, and fire detection alarm systems.
Joint Transport Commissioner Vinay Samotra, Assistant Transport Commissioner, ARTO (HQ) Jammu, and other officials were present at the meeting, along with representatives from various schools. School authorities assured the commissioner that safety measures outlined in Supreme Court guidelines were being followed and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring compliance across their transport operations.
The Transport Department’s initiative signals a strong commitment to fostering safer transportation for students, urging schools to prioritise the well-being of their pupils and adopt modern safety measures.
