Road safety can’t be compromised

The safety of schoolchildren must never be left to chance. The accident involving a school bus at Darbgam in Pulwama, which left 11 of the 13 students onboard injured, is a serious reminder of the risks posed by negligence in school transport. The incident becomes even more concerning in view of preliminary reports that the vehicle was operating without mandatory fitness inspection, valid permits and other statutory documents. The Transport Department’s decision to recommend registration of an FIR against the school management is a necessary step towards fixing accountability. Schools entrusted with the responsibility of transporting children must understand that compliance with road safety regulations is not optional. Every vehicle carrying students must meet prescribed safety standards, possess valid documentation and undergo regular fitness inspections. Any compromise can have serious consequences. The Motor Vehicles Act and Central Motor Vehicles Rules provide a clear framework for regulating transport vehicles. Their provisions must be implemented strictly, particularly in the case of school buses, where the responsibility involves the lives of children. Institutions cannot be allowed to operate vehicles without fulfilling basic legal and safety requirements. The inspection of the school’s transport fleet by the Motor Vehicles Department and Traffic Police, followed by the seizure of two more vehicles found violating permit conditions or lacking valid documents, suggests that the problem may extend beyond one bus. This calls for a wider inspection of school transport vehicles across Jammu and Kashmir. The authorities must ensure that the recommended FIR is pursued and that accountability is established after a fair investigation. At the same time, school managements should conduct regular internal checks and ensure that only roadworthy, authorized vehicles are used. Children deserve safe journeys to and from school. No institution should be permitted to put their lives at risk through negligence. Road safety rules must be enforced before another tragedy occurs.