The Jammu Transport Commissioner has set January 31, 2024, as the deadline for installing CCTV cameras in all school buses to enhance student safety

This decision, announced during a meeting with school authorities, aligns with Supreme Court guidelines on the safety standards for vehicles used to transport students.

Key directives issued include:

Mandatory CCTV Cameras: All school buses must have functional CCTV systems to monitor driver and staff behavior.

Speed Governors: Vehicles must have speed governors, with speeds restricted to 40 km/h.

Compliance Monitoring: Any school bus found violating safety norms, such as overloading or over speeding, will be seized immediately.

Private Vehicle Compliance: School authorities must ensure private vehicles hired by parents adhere to safety standards, including emergency exits, fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, GPS trackers, seat belts, and fire alarm systems.

Underage Driving Restrictions: Schools must prevent underage students from driving and counsel parents about its dangers and legal consequences.

The meeting also highlighted the shared responsibility of schools and parents in ensuring the safety of students during transportation. Failure to comply with these measures will result in strict penalties. (GNS)