Northeast Desk, 23th September: The Traffic Control Police Wing of Manipur has reiterated its call for schools and school vehicle associations to adhere strictly to safety regulations regarding student transportation. This advisory addresses growing concerns about overcrowding in school vehicles, which poses significant risks to student safety.
Citing Manipur Gazette Extraordinary No. 385, dated September 22, 2015, the Transport Department mandates that school vehicles must not carry more than 1.5 times their registered seating capacity. This regulation aims to prevent overloading, which increases the likelihood of accidents during sudden stops or collisions.
The Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety (SCORS) has also highlighted the need for strict enforcement of these guidelines. Overcrowded vehicles significantly endanger children, making this a pressing concern for road safety authorities.
Under Manipur Gazette Extraordinary No. 189, dated September 7, 2019, the Traffic Control Police Wing has the authority to penalize violators under Section 194A of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. Drivers exceeding the prescribed seating capacity will face penalties.
The Traffic Control Police Wing emphasized the collective responsibility to ensure student safety on the road, urging all stakeholders to comply with regulations for the well-being of schoolchildren.
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