Bihar Transport Minister Shravan Kumar has introduced strict measures to ensure the safety of schoolchildren traveling in the state. Emphasizing the government’s focus on children’s safety, the minister has warned of severe penalties for school managements and vehicle owners who do not adhere to safety regulations. To enforce these rules, the Transport Department will conduct a comprehensive inspection campaign statewide starting in January.
Under the new guidelines, every school vehicle must be equipped with essential safety features such as a Vehicle Location Tracking Device (VLTD), panic button, GPS, and CCTV cameras. School administrations are required to securely store at least 60 days of CCTV footage. Moreover, speed governors have been mandated in all school buses to limit the speed to 40 km per hour, aiming to prevent overspeeding.
Transport Minister Kumar has also outlined strict regulations for drivers, stating that penalties will be imposed for offenses like speeding, dangerous driving, or driving under the influence. Drivers caught violating red lights or showing lane indiscipline more than twice a year will face disqualification. Additionally, individuals with convictions under the IPC, CrPC, or POCSO Act will be prohibited from driving school vehicles, with mandatory police verification of their permanent address and two close relatives before appointment.
According to a transport department official, drivers must possess a valid Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) license and have a minimum of one year of driving experience. Furthermore, all school buses must be equipped with essential safety equipment like a first-aid box, fire extinguisher, and retro-reflective tape. The Transport Department has emphasized that these measures aim to enhance transparency, accountability, and safety in transporting schoolchildren across Bihar.
