NCP-SCP Rajya Sabha MP Fauzia Khan on Monday urged the government to formulate a national school transport policy to ensure uniform safety regulations across all states, citing rising accidents involving school buses and vans.
Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Khan highlighted critical gaps in school transport safety. She noted that seat belts are not mandatory in school buses, and while some states have introduced CCTV requirements, enforcement remains inconsistent.
“Despite India’s high road accident fatality rate, there is no comprehensive national policy ensuring school transport safety,” she said.
She pointed out that although some states have set standards for school transport, poor enforcement has rendered them ineffective. Additionally, auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws ferrying children operate with minimal safety regulations.
To address these concerns, Khan urged the government to establish a uniform school transport policy with mandatory seat belts, CCTV cameras, GPS tracking, and defined safety standards for all school vehicles, including private autos, vans, and rickshaws.
She also emphasized strict enforcement of speed limits, prevention of overcrowding, and regular safety audits. Schools, she said, must implement a grievance redressal mechanism and ensure drivers undergo regular training and sensitization programs.
“Ensuring the safety of schoolchildren should be a national priority. A well-defined transport policy is essential to prevent accidents and protect young lives,” she asserted.
Her appeal underscores the urgent need for consistent safety measures and accountability in school transportation across India.
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