Udupi district police initiated a comprehensive inspection of school transport vehicles across all station limits on Tuesday, registering 203 violations and collecting fines amounting to Rs. 71,000. This district-wide safety operation was conducted following a directive from State Health and Family Welfare Minister UT Khader, who emphasized the critical need to monitor vehicles transporting schoolchildren during a June 4 meeting with district officials at the Udupi District Collector's office.
The special drive targeted a total of 483 vehicles responsible for bringing students to and from school. Inspections covered various types of transport, including school buses, vans, and auto rickshaws, scrutinizing essential documents like vehicle records, fitness certificates, insurance, and driver's licenses. Furthermore, authorities meticulously checked for mandatory safety standards, ensuring the presence of fire extinguishers, first aid boxes, and functional emergency exit systems.
Among the 203 cases of rule infringement identified, 112 involved vehicles carrying children beyond their prescribed capacity. Additionally, 58 drivers were cited for operating without proper uniforms, while 33 other violations were recorded. Legal action was promptly taken under the Motor Vehicle Act against all vehicles found flouting traffic regulations and specific school vehicle safety norms.
Officials also issued clear directives to the concerned drivers, transport administrators, and school management, stressing the paramount importance of prioritizing the safety of schoolchildren and strictly adhering to all stipulated safety measures. Udupi District Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar affirmed that the department views infractions such as excessive child transportation, insufficient documentation, and the absence of safety equipment with utmost seriousness. He further announced that such special inspection operations would continue consistently in the days ahead to ensure the safe commute of all students.
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📰 Source: Vartha Bharati Udupi