It is perplexing that instead of holding defaulters accountable the government is giving chances to those who have ignored the regulations meant to streamline students’ journeys between home, school, and coaching centers. The government has been issuing strict guidelines for the vehicles engaged in ferrying the students to schools and coaching centres to install CCTV cameras but the transporters seems to be reluctant as many vehicles still ply without these electronic eyes (CCTV cameras) to monitor the daily voyages of the students to ensure their safety in all aspects.
Reportedly in December last year, Transport Commissioner of Jammu and Kashmir had issued the guidelines asking the school managements to ensure CCTV surveillance in school transport on or before January 31, 2025, but after passing of the aforesaid deadline rather than enforcing penalties for defaulters, the same officer extended the deadline to March 31, indicating a complacency and lack of seriousness in addressing the critical issue of student safety.
Except for very few schools with limited budgets, the schools have been thriving and ensuring a CCTV camera in each vehicle engaged in transporting the students is not a big deal for them. It seems that the managements of the schools are taking this crucial issue very lightly and the government though under compulsion of guidelines given by the top court of the country is more interested in showing that it is pursuing things but on ground the status seems to be dismal and dissuading.
It is pertinent to mention that the directions issued by the Transport Commissioner in the present context has covered and mandated private buses, vans, taxis, and other vehicles to adhere to the Government’s safety regulations, although time will tell about the changes made on ground.
According to the new guidelines, all outsourced vehicles must be legally registered and fitted with speed-limiting devices, which should not be tampered with. Additionally, the vehicles are required to install CCTV cameras inside to monitor the safety of students.
The guidelines further specify that all outsourced vehicles must be clearly marked with School Bus/Van in bold letters on both sides of the vehicle. The instructions also call for each vehicle to be equipped with a first-aid kit and fire extinguisher. The contact numbers of the Police Control Room, SSP Traffic, and the concerned RTO, along with the driver’s name and contact number must be displayed on the vehicle.
With these regulations in place, it is now the government’s responsibility to ensure effective implementation on the ground, as the safety of the future leaders of our nation is at stake. Enough of the delays and excuses—the authorities must act decisively, penalize defaulters without exception, and ensure that safety measures are strictly enforced. If the government continues to turn a blind eye, it will be equally responsible for any tragedy that occurs due to its inaction.
