Jehanabad: The Bihar transport department has seized a school bus in Jehanabad and launched action against those responsible following the death of a six-year-old pupil last week.
A departmental inquiry found that the bus, involved in the fatal incident on August 28, was operating without valid safety clearances. Officials said its fitness certificate had expired in February 2024, and the vehicle was running without insurance, a pollution certificate, or a valid driving licence for the driver.
Authorities said the driver was operating the vehicle “in a dangerous and reckless manner”. A challan has been issued against both the owner and the driver, with the department vowing strict proceedings under the Motor Vehicles Act.
The district transport officer and motor vehicle inspector in Jehanabad have been instructed to initiate legal action not only against the driver and vehicle owner but also against the school administration. “The safety of children is paramount and no negligence will be tolerated,” the department said in a statement.
The crackdown will now extend across Jehanabad, with inspectors ordered to review transport arrangements in all private schools to ensure compliance with government safety standards. Officials said all school vehicles must carry valid permits along with fitness, insurance and pollution certificates.
