Indore (Madhya Pradesh): The Regional Transport Officer (RTO) has issued a warning to schools, urging strict compliance with the High Court's guidelines on school bus safety. The directives, discussed in a meeting with Principals and operators of educational institutions at the Collector’s office, on Monday, mandate adherence to safety protocols to ensure student welfare.
Key measures include painting school buses yellow with ‘School Bus’ or ‘On School Duty’ displayed prominently. The vehicle in-charge’s details, including name and contact information, must be clearly visible on both sides of the bus. Safety features such as horizontal window grills, safety glass, and the prohibition of curtains or coloured films are mandatory.
“Every school bus must be equipped with a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a trained attendant to assist students during transit. Drivers must possess a permanent heavy vehicle licence with at least five years of experience and a clean record for serious traffic violations,” RTO Pradeep Sharma said.
Additional mandates include GPS tracking, CCTV cameras, speed governors, and emergency doors. “Only students, teachers, or parents inspecting safety norms are allowed to travel in the buses. Vehicles older than 12 years are prohibited, and contracted vehicles must hold valid fitness, insurance, and pollution control certificates,” the RTO directed the schools. He also added that schools must also regulate auto-rickshaws, limiting passengers to four, including the driver.
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Each institution is required to appoint a vehicle in-charge for compliance monitoring and ensure a teacher accompanies students during trips. Regular medical check-ups and criminal background checks for drivers and conductors are mandatory. Sharma added that non-compliance would invite strict penalties, urging schools to prioritise student safety.
