The Sindh Education Department has directed all private schools in Karachi to ensure safe transportation for students, warning that school administrations could face legal action over violations of transport safety regulations.
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The directives include a strict ban on gas cylinders in school vans, a prohibition on overcrowding and mandatory vehicle fitness certificates.
The instructions were issued by the Directorate of Inspection and Registration of Private Educational Institutions following directions from the provincial education minister.
Gas Cylinders Banned in School Vans
The Directorate warned that some school vans were operating with gas cylinders installed, creating serious risks for students.
According to the department, unsafe gas installations could lead to fires, explosions and other dangerous incidents.
School administrations have been instructed to ensure that transport providers remove such hazards and comply with the relevant safety requirements.
The Directorate also expressed concern over reports that fuel was being transferred into some vehicles using bottles and cans, describing the practice as extremely dangerous.
Overcrowding in School Vehicles Prohibited
Private schools have been directed to ensure that transporters carry students only within the approved passenger capacity of their vehicles.
The Directorate said overcrowding would not be tolerated, as it puts students’ lives at risk.
School administrations must also ensure that children do not travel on vehicle footboards, hang from doors or occupy other unsafe positions while travelling.
Fitness Certificates Mandatory for School Vans
The education authorities have made valid fitness certificates issued by the Transport Department mandatory for all school vans.
School administrations must ensure that vehicles used to transport students have effective fitness certificates and meet the applicable safety standards.
Transport providers have also been instructed to follow relevant laws, safety regulations and security requirements.
Schools Could Face Legal Action Over Violations
The Directorate warned that action would be taken in cases of non-compliance and that school administrations could be held legally responsible for violations.
The department has urged private schools to strictly implement the safety instructions and ensure that all transport arrangements meet the required standards.
The measures aim to reduce risks associated with unsafe school vehicles and protect students travelling to and from educational institutions across Karachi.
