Secure transportation

Every morning, the roads remain jam-packed with the school buses and vans, carrying students to different educational institutions. But, it has been observed that maximum of these vehicles disobey the traffic rules and regulations, which have multiple times ended up in fatal road accidents, claiming precious lives. In one such incident, two students died and at least 17 others were injured last month when a bus carrying students and staff from Government Degree College Sogam, Kupwara, met with an accident in Vodhpora village. It has been reported that the bus was completely fit to be used for carrying people. However, such incidents are to be prevented mandatorily by strict and positive measures. Besides, the students travelling in the school buses and vans must have safety and security in every aspect for which the concerned needs to tighten noose and ensure proper procedures are followed in letter and spirit. In this regard, CCTV cameras must be made mandatory in all school buses and vans, and the dangerous practice of overloading children must be outlawed and strictly penalized. Installing CCTV cameras in school transport is not about surveillance for its own sake; it is about accountability, deterrence, and safety. These cameras serve as silent witnesses, deterring misconduct by drivers, attendants, and even students themselves. They also provide crucial evidence in case of accidents or complaints, enabling swift and fair action. Several progressive states and school boards have already begun mandating CCTV installations, and the results are encouraging. The safety of our children is not up for negotiation. Let every school vehicle be a moving symbol of trust, discipline, and care. Let the road to school be as safe as the classroom itself.