The Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) has issued a directive mandating the installation of CCTV cameras in all school transport vehicles by July 31. In case of delay, heavy penalties and strict action would be taken against the vehicle owners, the RTO said. The decision has been taken to ensure the safety of school-going children.
This comes after a recent meeting held between Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar and RTO officials, where the Commissioner instructed the RTO to take immediate action to enhance student safety during transit. Acting on these instructions, the RTO has now released a formal order and set a deadline for the installation of CCTV systems in school vehicles.
Swapnil Bhosale, Deputy Regional Transport Officer, said, "We have given a deadline of July 31 to complete CCTV installation. Strict action will be taken against vehicles that fail to comply. The move aims to prevent any unwanted incidents involving school students and to maintain a close watch on the behaviour of drivers and other staff."
"Additionally, special inspection drives will be conducted regularly by the RTO's 'Vayuveg squad' to ensure safety. Moreover, the daily monitoring of CCTV footage will be the responsibility of the school administration and the School Transport Committee. Any negligence in this regard may lead to strict penalties," he added.
Mandatory key points
- Every school vehicle must be registered with the respective school administration.
- Female attendants are mandatory for vehicles transporting children under six years of age.
- Non-compliance will result in severe action against the vehicle owner or driver.
- Police verification of the driver, conductor and cleaner of the school vehicles is compulsory.
