School bus fitness checks intensified ahead of reopening

With schools set to reopen in three days for the new academic year, transport authorities have intensified fitness inspections of school buses across the district.

Officials are carrying out vehicle fitness tests, examining brakes, gear systems and reverse functionality before issuing fitness certificates. Although such inspections are usually conducted at Automated Testing Stations (ATS), ongoing works at a new ATP centre at Gambheeram have led to the continuation of the traditional inspection system this year.

Authorities said buses are certified only after confirming full mechanical safety. Mandatory requirements include emergency exits, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, window mesh, safe boarding steps, rear-view and internal mirrors for visibility, fire alarms and water-based fire suppression systems.

Driver norms stipulate that operators must be below 60 years of age, have at least five years of driving experience and possess good eyesight. Both drivers and helpers are required to wear khaki uniforms, and buses must prominently display the school name, contact number and address.

Parents’ committees comprising guardians and school management representatives have been advised to meet weekly to monitor transport safety and report issues.

Officials have directed schools to obtain fitness certificates before reopening on June 2, warning that non-compliant buses will be seized and action initiated.

District In-charge DTV Jayaprakash said there are 1,306 school buses in the district, of which 1,181 have obtained fitness certificates so far, while 125 are pending.