Odisha STA Brings Stricter Guidelines For School Buses

Bhubaneswar: Keeping in view the safety of school children, the Odisha State Road Transport Authority has brought in a new set of stricter guidelines for school buses and vans running in the state. The new guidelines will have to be strictly adhered by all and concerned authorities have been asked to take stringent action against any deviation.

According to the new guidelines, each and every school bus and van should write the word “School Bus” prominently on both front and rear of the vehicle. If the vehicle is a hired one, then the words “On School Duty” should be mentioned in the rear and front. The new guidelines make it compulsory for each bus to keep fire extinguishers and a first aid facility. Also, the name of the School and the Phone number of the School should also be mentioned clearly on the bus.

The school buses must be fitted with horizontal grills and must have speed governors. The drivers will not exceed the permitted speed limits of 50 kilometers. According to the guidelines, the doors of the Bus should be fitted with safe locking system.

Also, the guidelines prescribe that there should be space under the seat for the students to keep school bags. The school should have an escort from the school. All the vehicles should posses valid annual vehicle fitness certificates. The driver and conductor should wear proper uniform. There should be at least one attendant having a valid conductor License in the Bus. The bus drivers should have valid driving license with at least 5 years of experience in driving heavy vehicles.