<p>Senior officials said the administration had adopted a zero-tolerance approach in view of past incidents and complaints from parents </p> — Senior officials said the administration had adopted a zero-tolerance approach in view of past incidents and complaints from parents

Gurgaon: The district administration has stepped up measures to ensure the safety of schoolchildren, announcing strict and regular inspections of school buses under Haryana’s Safe Vehicle Policy. The move follows directions issued by the deputy commissioner to all sub-divisional magistrates to enforce compliance and take stringent action against violators.

In Badshahpur subdivision, a coordinated inspection drive will be carried out by teams from the transport department, traffic police and education department. Officials said the checks were aimed at addressing long-standing concerns over lapses in safety and preventing accidents caused by negligence.

“Buses ferrying students will be thoroughly examined for fitness certificates, valid permits, insurance, pollution under control certificates and payment of road tax. Authorities will also verify installation and proper functioning of speed governors, GPS tracking systems and CCTV cameras. Fire safety equipment, first-aid boxes and clearly marked emergency exits will be closely scrutinised” said Badshahpur SDM Sanjiv Singla. There will be checks to ensure drivers have valid licences, prescribed uniforms and identification badges. The presence of trained female attendants on school buses, particularly those carrying younger children, will be mandatory. Officials will also assess seating arrangements to ensure there is no overcrowding. Senior officials said the administration had adopted a zero-tolerance approach in view of past incidents and complaints from parents. The administration has made it clear that responsibility will not be limited to bus drivers alone. In cases of serious or repeated violations, legal action will also be initiated against school owners and management.

“Children’s safety is non-negotiable. Any compromise, whether by drivers or school authorities, will invite strict action,” an official said. Penalties may include fines, suspension of permits and, in extreme cases, prosecution under relevant laws.

The inspections will be conducted in a phased and continuous manner, covering prominent private and public schools across the subdivision. Officials said the drive would be extended to other parts of the district. Parents’ groups have welcomed the move, calling it a necessary step to restore confidence in school transport safety. The administration has reiterated that the drive will not be a one-time exercise but a sustained effort to ensure that every child travels safely.