Ensure papers are in order before hiring school buses

Representational image. Pic/iStock

A routine inspection by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Mulund has uncovered an alleged scam involving fake vehicle registration and chassis numbers, targeting an international school.

Officials found a school-linked vehicle running with forged documents and mismatched chassis details. The issue came to light during a routine inspection near the fire brigade office in Gavhanpada, Mulund East. When the RTO team checked a bus, they noticed discrepancies in its registration details. A physical verification of the vehicle revealed that the chassis number stamped on the bus did not match the registration and number plate details available in official records, following which the vehicle was detained and its documents were subjected to a detailed verification.

It must be ensured that all papers are in place before hiring/using school buses and the relevant contractors for schools. Following the rules is important. In this case, the school failed to verify the vehicle's registration for over two years.

While officials may be concerned about the loss to the transport department, too, we want to focus on the importance of school buses following every safety norm. From driver training to the inside of the bus, the condition of the vehicle, and necessary checks at a certain timeline, every aspect needs to be looked into. Fire extinguishers inside the bus and an exit window are also huge safety steps.

While registration is numero uno, closed-circuit television cameras inside the vehicle, and GPS will also enhance safety. The human factor, of course, is the driver who must adhere to the speed limit and a fully trained, responsible attendant inside the bus. Smooth, safe transport means less stressed parents, too.