The new rules aim to make school transportation safer, more reliable, and parent-friendly.
Mumbai: The Maharashtra Transport Department is set to introduce a new set of regulations for school vans to enhance student safety. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has finalized the draft rules and directed officials to issue a notification soon.
At present, school bus operators charge parents a 12-month fee, including vacation periods, which has often caused resentment among parents. Under the new rules, operators will only be allowed to collect fees for 10 months, strictly on a monthly basis.
A meeting regarding school vans was held at the Transport Commissioner’s office, where Minister Sarnayik emphasized the need to modernize safety standards and ease outdated rules. He stated that vans should be equipped with modern facilities to ensure student safety.
Only 12+1 Seater Vehicles to Get School Van Status
According to the revised framework, only vehicles with 12+1 seating capacity will be classified as school vans. The Central Government has already set safety standards for school buses, and similar norms will now be applied to school vans.
These vans will be required to have:
- GPS tracking system
- Dashboard-mounted CCTV with display screen
- Fire alarm system
- Alarm if doors remain open
- Speed governor limiting speed to 40 km/h
- Panic button and emergency exit doors
- Steps for entry to assist younger children
