Hyderabad RTA begins fitness drive for school buses before classes resume

Ahead of school reopening, RTA officials in Hyderabad are conducting special drives to inspect school buses for fitness and safety compliance. Nearly 78% have cleared tests, with unfit vehicles to face penalties. Inspections will continue in coordination with the police

Hyderabad: With schools all set to reopen in the city, the Road Transport Authority (RTA) officials are gearing up to conduct special drives across the city and inspect school buses for any irregularities.

The city has nearly 1,260 school buses operated by various schools for transportation of students. The transport department has been conducting inspections of these school buses since second week of May to issue fitness certificates. So far, nearly 78 per cent of the buses have passed the fitness tests. Since certificates expire on May 15 each year, pre-academic inspections are crucial.

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Joint Transport Commissioner C Ramesh said of the 1,257 school buses currently in operation in Hyderabad, about 1,000 have received fitness certificates in the last one month. Inspections will continue until the academic term begins and even after. Educational institute vehicles without a valid fitness certificate will not be allowed to operate, he warned.

On the other hand, about 4,894 educational institute buses in Rangareddy district and 4,970 educational institute buses in Medchal-Malkajgiri have renewed their fitness certificates.

It has been decided to ensure that no school bus in Hyderabad should be allowed to venture on city roads without getting the FC renewed or following safety precautions. RTA will seize vehicles and levy hefty penalties and the goodwill of the schools will be impacted, officials said adding that necessary communication was sent to all educational institutions well in advance.

RTA officials said most buses have cleared the fitness tests. Some had expired insurance, which was promptly renewed. A few had worn-out tyres, which were replaced before certification was granted.

While most of the buses have renewed their Fitness Certificates (FCs), RTA authorities have rejected a few as they did not fulfill the requirements. As part of efforts to enforce rules, RTA officials are planning to launch special drives in coordination with the Police Department, once schools are reopened.

School buses as per the Motor Vehicles Act:

• Driver must have a valid heavy vehicle driving licence

• Driver must be under 60 years of age

• An attendant must accompany students on every trip

• Buses must be equipped with essential safety items

• Must have first-aid kit, fire extinguisher

• Registration papers and a valid fitness certificate.