Pune RTO Cracks Down On School Transport Safety Amidst Rising Concerns
Pune RTO Cracks Down On School Transport Safety Amidst Rising Concerns
In a welcome move, the Regional Transport Office (RTO), Pune has finally taken concrete steps to ensure the safety of schoolchildren in Pune. Following recent incidents of molestation and overcrowding in private school buses, the RTO has formed ten squads to inspect school transport vehicles and enforce strict adherence to safety norms.
Archana Gaikwad, Regional Transport Officer, Pune, stated that the RTO conducts annual inspections of school transport buses, vans, and rickshaws, checking all aspects, including operator character certificates and vehicle fitness. Additionally, teams are visiting schools to verify compliance with the 2011 bus policy rules and regulations.
The RTO has also appealed to parents to personally check the safety measures in place, such as female attendants, student strength, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. Gaikwad assured that stringent action will be taken against violators.
This move comes after years of complaints about private operators flouting safety rules, with over 6,000 school vans and buses operating in the city, many without renewed certificates of competency. The lack of action against these violators had raised concerns among parents and social activists.
While some have questioned the effectiveness of the RTO’s efforts, the move is seen as a step in the right direction. With the formation of dedicated squads and increased scrutiny, the RTO aims to prevent accidents and ensure a safe commute for school children.
