Jammu and Kashmir's Transport Commissioner, Vishesh Mahajan, has set a deadline of January 31 for all school buses to install CCTV cameras and GPS devices to enhance the safety of school children.
This decision was announced during a meeting with school representatives on Monday and is part of a safety audit aimed at improving student transportation.
The installation of GPS trackers in buses is considered a crucial step for monitoring routes and increasing accountability.
The Commissioner stressed that the safety of children is a top priority and referenced the Supreme Court's guidelines on school bus safety.
“CCTV cameras will help us monitor the activities of drivers and support staff, ensuring the safety of students at all times,” he said.
He directed schools to equip their buses with functional speed governors to limit speeds to 40 km per hour, according to existing regulations.
He warned that strict action would be taken against violators, stating that buses found to be overloaded or exceeding speed limits would be seized immediately.
School representatives assured compliance with the Supreme Court’s safety requirements, which include fitting buses with emergency exit doors, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, seat belts and fire detection alarms.
Mahajan expressed concerns regarding underage driving and instructed schools to prevent students from driving two-wheelers or four-wheelers near school premises.
He urged schools to organise counselling sessions for parents to raise awareness about the consequences of allowing their children to engage in underage driving.
The meeting also addressed concerns related to private vehicles hired by parents to transport students.
“Non-compliance with safety guidelines will not be tolerated. Schools and parents must work together to prioritise the safety of children,” Mahajan said.
This initiative demonstrates the administration's strong commitment to student safety by enforcing clear rules and holding all stakeholders accountable.