The Maharashtra government has made it mandatory to install CCTV cameras in all school buses, educational institution buses and school vans across the state to enhance student safety.
Parents will be able to watch the live CCTV feed on their mobile phones, while schools and bus operators must store the footage for at least 30 days.
The Transport Department said the move is aimed at making the daily commute of lakhs of students safer, more transparent and digitally monitored.
Under the new rules, all school buses must be equipped with a Digital Safety Monitoring System, which includes CCTV cameras, GPS tracking and panic buttons.
Seat Belts and Fire Safety Mandatory
The regulations also require school buses and vans to have seat belts for all passengers. In addition, vehicles must be fitted with either a fire detection alarm system or 1-kg ABC-class fireballs near the engine compartment and emergency exits.
RTA to Regulate School Bus Fares
The Regional Transport Authority (RTA) will determine the base fare per kilometre for school buses. Schools and transport operators can charge fares within 10% of the approved rate.
Officials from the Transport and Education Departments will jointly inspect school vehicles and submit their reports to the District School Bus Safety Committee.
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