Patna: In a move to improve the safety of school children, the transport and traffic authorities in Bihar have enforced a complete ban on overloading in school autos. As per the new directive, drivers found carrying extra children beyond the permitted limit will be fined ₹200 per child.
According to the rules, a maximum of four children are allowed in a CNG auto and seven in a Vikram auto. Any violation will result in strict action, including challans issued by traffic police either online or offline.
Strict Conditions for School Auto Operations
Apart from the overloading restriction, school auto drivers must now comply with several mandatory conditions. If stopped by traffic police, they must present valid documents such as a permit, vehicle fitness certificate, pollution control certificate, and a valid driving license. Only vehicles following these safety norms will be permitted to carry schoolchildren.
Officials also clarified that e-rickshaws are completely barred from transporting children to and from schools.
GPS and CCTV Now Compulsory in School Vans and Buses
To enhance monitoring and security, the administration has made the installation of GPS tracking systems and CCTV cameras compulsory in all school vans, buses, and autos. However, CCTV installation is exempted for autos, while GPS remains mandatory. The real-time monitoring of these devices will be done by the Traffic Superintendent of Police, the Transport Department, and the District Transport Officer.
‘On-School Duty’ Board Mandatory
All vehicles involved in school transport — including autos — must display “On-School Duty” boards at the front and rear. This board must be visible whenever the vehicle is in school service. If the same vehicle is used to carry general passengers, the board can be removed accordingly.
Additionally, schools that hire or lease buses or vans from private operators must ensure that the “On-School Duty” status is prominently displayed on those vehicles as well.
