Why Pay School Bus Fees for 12 Months When School Runs for 10? Parents Demand Fair Policy, SBOA Seeks Govt Support
School Bus Operators Win Relief As Maharashtra Government Agrees To Roll Back E-Challans, Assures Support
Mumbai: Parents in Maharashtra are questioning why they must pay school bus fees for the entire year when schools operate for only ten months. Amid growing frustration, the state government has formed a committee to draft a new school bus policy to address concerns over unfair fee structures.
Anil Garg, president of the School Bus Owners’ Association (SBOA), argued that while parents demand a ten-month fee structure, bus operators face year-round expenses such as GST, road tax, insurance, staff salaries, and vehicle maintenance. He urged the government to standardize fees and provide financial relief to school bus operators.
“In Mumbai, buses must be scrapped after eight years, unlike in other states where the limit is 12 to 15 years. Extending this period would help control costs and reduce fees,” Garg said. He also called for GST rate revisions and other concessions to make school transport more affordable.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik acknowledged parents’ concerns, stating that collecting school and bus fees simultaneously adds to their financial burden. He suggested allowing monthly payments instead of lump sum charges.
Safety remains a priority, with mandates requiring buses to have GPS tracking, CCTV cameras, and panic buttons. Garg emphasized that strict regulations leave little room for flexibility, and any new policy should consider industry challenges.
Parents and stakeholders urge the government to consult all parties before making decisions that impact school transport affordability and sustainability.
