Concerns Rise Over Unauthorized School Transport Practices

Violation of Safe School Transport Policies

Numerous private educational institutions are reportedly permitting unauthorized vehicles to transport students, violating the Safe School Vahan Policy.

Reports indicate that Sacred Heart Convent School in Sarabha Nagar frequently allows private cars for student pick-up and drop-off. Similar breaches have been observed at various other schools.

Himanshu Jain, the Deputy Commissioner, stated that the administration has requested a formal response from the school authorities regarding these issues. He mentioned, 'We will take appropriate action following their response.'

Officials have indicated that enforcement teams are expected to intensify their efforts throughout the city.

Veena D’Souza, the principal of Sacred Heart Convent School, assured that she would take the necessary steps to address the situation.

She stated, 'I will instruct the van operators and relevant staff to cease this practice to ensure student safety.'

The Safe School Vahan Policy specifies that only authorized buses and vans, painted in the designated yellow color, are permitted for student transportation.

These vehicles must be equipped with essential safety features, including CCTV cameras, GPS tracking, and first-aid kits. The policy also requires trained personnel to be present and stipulates that if school transport is unavailable, parents must transport their children.

Private vehicles often disregard safety regulations and tend to be overcrowded, exposing children to unnecessary risks.

This situation has raised alarms among local residents, who are questioning how such violations can persist openly despite established guidelines. Many have noted that private vehicles lack proper identification as school transport, complicating monitoring efforts.

'It's dangerous, especially for younger kids, as there's no assurance regarding the driver's background or the vehicle's condition,' expressed a concerned parent.

Conversely, some parents argue that the convenience and affordability of private vehicles make them a preferable choice.

Concerns from School Van Operators

Pushpinder Singh Jolly, representing the School Van Operators Association, voiced strong concerns, stating that their compliant members are being adversely affected.

'School vans are becoming less utilized as many schools are opting for private vehicles. We adhere to the Safe Vahan Policy by installing cameras and other safety measures, yet these unauthorized vehicles operate right under the noses of school and government officials,' remarked an association member.

Operators highlighted their significant investments in meeting compliance standards, including vehicle fitness, driver verification, and safety equipment.

Despite this, they lamented that illegal operators continue to operate without oversight.