Patna : Schoolchildren in Patna will once again be allowed to travel to and from school by autorickshaw, after police partially lifted a ban on school runs – but only for vehicles that meet newly outlined safety standards.
The decision was announced following a meeting on Tuesday between the city’s traffic police and the Auto Union, which had protested against the blanket ban imposed on April 1. Parents had also raised concerns, citing the lack of alternatives for many families who rely on autorickshaws and e-rickshaws for their children’s daily commute.
The ban was originally enforced by police headquarters in response to a spate of road accidents involving student transport. While the restriction remains in force for e-rickshaws, authorities have now agreed to allow autorickshaws back on school duty, provided they comply with a phased rollout of safety measures.
Speaking after the meeting, Traffic SP Aparajit Lohan said the police had adopted a “flexible approach” in response to public pressure. “We have decided to grant this relief considering the demands of the Auto Union and the concerns of parents,” he said.
According to the terms of the agreement, autorickshaw owners must implement specific modifications and safeguards. By May 1, vehicles must have one side of the entry gate closed, carry only the permitted number of students, and display a clear “On School Duty” sign. By June 1, all school-duty autorickshaws will be required to have GPS tracking systems and speedometers installed.
ADG Traffic Sudhanshu Kumar, who chaired the meeting, confirmed that strict action will be taken against any vehicles flouting the rules. The prohibition on e-rickshaws transporting children remains in place, with no indication of a timeline for review.
