Anantnag, Aug 30 (JKNS): The Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Anantnag, Mubashir Jan, has completed a comprehensive technical safety audit of 588 school transport vehicles from 16 private schools in the district.
Details available with news agency JKNS, The audit, conducted for the 2024-25 academic year, is aimed at enhancing student safety and ensuring strict compliance with transport regulations.
The audit confirmed that all inspected buses were equipped with essential safety features as per mandatory guidelines, including CCTV cameras, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and speed limiting devices (SLDs).
The ARTO also conducted an additional 41 inspection checks on various vehicles. The department has now mandated that only fit vehicles, in compliance with AIS-063 safety protocols, will be permitted to operate.
Schools have also been instructed to maintain active Road Safety Clubs.
To ensure transparency and accountability, the technical team has made video documentation, including GPS-tagged photos and videos, mandatory for all driving license tests, vehicle fitness checks, school transport audits, and awareness programs.
Authorities have warned that strict enforcement action, such as vehicle seizures, blacklisting, and fines for overloading, will be taken against violators. Warnings have already been issued in some cases to ensure adherence to the new norms. (JKNS)
