Two school buses challaned for violation of norms in Banga

Nawanshahr, August 7

In a proactive step towards ensuring the safety of schoolchildren, the district administration conducted a surprise inspection of school transport vehicles recently. The initiative was led by District Programme Officer Jagrup Singh.

As part of the campaign to strictly implement the Safe School Vahan Policy, a joint inspection was carried out in Banga block, Nawanshahr district. During the drive, school buses from institutions, including Cambridge School, Satluj Public School, Bhagwan Mahavir School, Saint Soldier School, and Guru Nanak Mission School were checked.

In all, seven school buses from six schools were inspected. Of these, two school buses were found violating safety norms, and challans were issued accordingly. The drivers of all school buses were educated about key provisions of the Safe School Vahan Policy.

Officials said strict legal action would be taken against any vehicle that does not comply with the policy. Schools and drivers were reminded of key requirements in buses that include installation of CCTV cameras, iron grills on windows, availability of a first-aid box, presence of a lady conductor, driver in school uniform, mandatory use of seat belts, no overcrowding of students and complete and valid documents of the vehicle and the driver.

Officials have been regularly engaging with school principals and drivers to spread awareness about safety norms to avoid any untoward incidents and ensure well-being of schoolchildren.

Inderpal Singh, Regional Transport Officer (RTO), also appealed to parents to verify safety standards of school buses before sending their children to school on such vehicles. He said no leniency would be shown towards drivers or school administrations for violating safety protocols. — TNS