MVD to conduct safety inspections of school buses

Kochi: In preparation for 2026-27 academic year, motor vehicles department (MVD) will conduct safety inspections of school buses at Kalamassery CF Ground at 8am on Wednesday and Saturday.District regional transport officer K R Suresh stated that vehicles will only be approved after ensuring all instructions provided by the transport commissioner are strictly followed for the safety of children. School buses must be painted golden yellow with a 150mm-wide golden-brown stripe below the windows on the sides. For rented vehicles, a board stating ‘On School Duty' must be clearly displayed at the front and back. All vehicles must display Child Helpline Number (1098) and Mobile Enforcement Squad Number (8547639117). Each vehicle should have a proper first-aid box and fire extinguishers. The first-aid box must contain 13 items recommended by law, including dressing materials, antiseptic lotions and eye drops. Windows of the vehicles should have horizontal grills, and a qualified attendant must be present to assist children. Flash inspections led by parents or teachers are suggested to evaluate the behaviour and service of bus staff. Strict guidelines are set for drivers as well. The drivers must have at least 10 years of work experience. Drivers penalised more than twice a year for traffic violations or speeding should not be employed under any circumstances. A laminated list containing phone numbers of travelling children and their guardians should be kept in the vehicle. Speed governors must be installed in school vehicles to limit speed to a maximum of 50km/h. Buses should have adequate emergency exits for evacuation in case of emergencies. The width and length of seats for children in each vehicle should not be reduced below specified measurements. Regional transport officer stated that strict action will be taken against vehicles that do not comply with these guidelines.