Srinagar,: The Transport Commissioner has issued a circular emphasizing strict safety measures for students traveling in private buses, vans, taxis, matadors, or any other vehicles engaged by schools or parents for transportation to schools and coaching institutes.
According to the circular, a copy of which lies with news agency JKNS, the Motor Vehicles Department remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of students. The department has already directed all educational institutions and school authorities across Jammu and Kashmir to comply with the Supreme Court’s guidelines in letter and spirit, including the installation of CCTV cameras in all school buses.
Taking a step further, the department has now asked that all outsourced vehicles used by parents, educational institutions, or coaching centers must be legally registered and adhere to all government safety regulations. These vehicles are required to be fitted with speed limiting devices and have functional CCTV cameras inside. Schools and parents are urged to ensure that these vehicles comply with all prescribed safety norms before opting for their services.
Additionally, the circular stresses that students must be educated about proper conduct while traveling. Any issues related to student safety should be reported to the concerned authorities. Outsourced vehicles must prominently display the words “School Bus” or “School Van” on both sides and be equipped with first-aid kits and fire extinguishers. Furthermore, telephone numbers of the Police Control Room, SSP Traffic, the concerned RTO, and the name and mobile number of the driver must be displayed inside the vehicle.
The transport commissioner has also directed that details of drivers of outsourced vehicles be shared with school authorities and subsequently with the district SSP for record and verification. Schools and parents must ensure that these vehicles are not overloaded and do not undergo any unauthorized modifications. Only permissible fuel should be used in line with the vehicle’s specifications.
The circular warns that all stakeholders — including parents, schools, educational institutions, vehicle owners, and service providers — must comply with these instructions by March 31, 2025. Non-compliance will attract action under various sections of the Motor Vehicles Act. (JKNS)
