Govt. notifies instructions to curb rash, negligent driving of school buses

Srinagar: For safe and smooth operations of school buses and to allay concerns of incidents of road accidents involving school buses, the School Education department has issued necessary instructions to ensure safety of students.
A circular issued by School Education department in this regard reads, “all Heads of Institutions, both Government and Private, shall ensure that every school bus engaged for transportation of students is fully compliant with the rules prescribed by the Transport Department”.
The circular further reads that it shall be ensured that one attendant is deployed in each school bus, in addition to the driver, to take proper care of students during boarding, travel, and de-boarding, and to handle any emergency situation that may arise. “Every school bus shall be equipped with a first aid box, fire extinguisher, and emergency contact details. The drivers shall strictly adhere to the prescribed speed limits and operate the buses only on approved routes. Any instance of rash or negligent driving shall invite strict disciplinary and legal action. Heads of Institutions shall personally verify compliance and maintain records relating to drivers, attendants, vehicle fitness, and insurance particulars”, the circular adds.
It further reads that the Chief Education Officers shall ensure proper monitoring of these instructions and in case of any default, strict legal action shall be initiated against the violators.