Transport Dept focuses on school bus fitness ahead of new academic year

With schools and colleges reopening on June 12, the Visakhapatnam Transport Department is ramping up efforts to ensure the safety of students by conducting mandatory fitness tests for all school buses. This initiative follows a recent accident involving a school bus that tragically claimed lives and highlighted the need for stricter regulations. The department’s focus on safety comes after a school bus accident on Beach Road left a police officer’s father and son dead, with the officer himself sustaining serious injuries. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ensuring school buses meet the necessary safety standards.
Approximately 1,500 school and college buses operate in the district. So far, only 918 have undergone the mandatory fitness test. The remaining 587 must obtain certification before June 12th to avoid being impounded. The Motor Vehicles Act outlines specific requirements for school buses, including designated signage, driver qualifications, regular eye tests, staff uniforms, first-aid kits, complaint books, fire alarms, and comfortable seating for children.
The government has implemented significant tax hikes on private school buses. Previously, buses below seven tonnes incurred charges of Rs 725, while those above were taxed Rs 1420. However, since last year, a uniform charge of Rs. 100 per seat has been introduced, payable every three months. This increased financial burden primarily affects parents, exacerbating existing financial strains.
On Thursday, Transport Department officials met with administrators from various educational institutions and vehicle owners to discuss the urgent need for compliance. Deputy Transport Commissioner G C Rajaratnam issued a stern warning that any buses operating without the necessary fitness certification would be seized, and legal action would be taken against the owners.
“Every vehicle must undergo a fitness test by June 12,” stated Rajaratnam. He also announced a special drive to inspect school and college buses from June 12 to June 30. For this purpose, 20 special teams will be formed to ensure strict adherence to the rules. Legal action will be taken against those who fail to comply. This initiative underscores the department’s commitment to student safety and the importance of maintaining high standards for school transportation.