MARGAO: Emphasising the importance of ensuring the safety of students, the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) took suo moto cognisance of the recent Balrath bus accident in Balli that left 22 students injured.
Following hearing conducted by GSCPCR with the Directorate of Education (DoE), Directorate of Transport and Office of the Superintendent of Police (SP), Traffic, in connection with that incident, the Commission issued a set of comprehensive directives, which are to be strictly adhered to by all relevant authorities.
“This decision is in line with our commitment to the safety and well-being of children in Goa,” said Peter F Borges, GSCPCR Chairperson.
A non-compliance warning was also issued where the authorities were informed that failure on their path to adhere to the directions would result in legal action.
The Directorate of Transport was asked to formulate the ‘Hiring of Private Vehicle for School Transportation Policy,’ outlining guidelines and procedures for engaging private vehicles in transporting students.
“This policy should establish a framework ensuring safety, reliability, and adherence to standards in utilising private transportation services. Key components may include criteria for selecting providers, safety measures, contractual agreements, insurance requirements, and emergency protocols, with the overarching goal of maintaining a secure and efficient transportation system prioritizing student well-being,” read the order.
The remaining instructions were for the DoE.
The first was to conduct a thorough safety audit for the Balrath fleet, strictly adhering to the guidelines established by the Supreme Court.
“The audit should comprehensively assess critical aspects, including vehicle condition, safety features, driver qualifications, route planning, identification, signage, and communication systems. Findings must be meticulously documented, and immediate corrective actions must be taken to address identified deficiencies,” read the order.
In light of safety concerns related to the aging Balrath fleet and in view of insufficient buses, the Commission directed the prompt acquisition of new buses to replace those surpassing their operational lifespan. “Notably, the state has not procured new buses for over a decade,” read the order.
DoE was also asked to issue a circular to School Transportation Committees, addressing and reporting instances of overloaded private vehicles transporting students.
“Emphasise vigilance by PTAs to actively monitor transportation, ensure compliance with safety standards, establish a reporting mechanism for overloading cases, collaborate with authorities, and initiate awareness campaigns to educate parents and drivers on seating capacity importance,” read the order.
The DoE was further instructed to issue a circular to all schools under its jurisdiction, requiring them to conduct compulsory annual fitness certification for school buses in June, prior to the commencement of the academic year.
Finally, the DoE was asked to initiate a special drive to address the issue of overcrowding of students in private vehicles ferrying students to schools in Goa.
“This proactive approach aims to create a safer environment for students commuting in private vehicles. Provide a compliance report to the Commission within two months to facilitate ongoing monitoring and assessment of the implemented measures,” the instruction and the order concluded.
