Kochi school bus safety inspections in Ernakulam have resulted in fines totalling Rs 57,250 against 34 vehicles found violating safety and legal requirements. The enforcement action covered school buses operating in Kakkanad, Kalamassery and Edappally, with officials warning that inspections will be intensified across more areas.
The checks were conducted by the enforcement wing of the motor vehicles department on Monday under the leadership of enforcement regional transport officer Biju Isaac. Officials found lapses in all 34 vehicles and imposed penalties based on the violations detected during the inspections.
The violations included operating vehicles without valid driving licences, non-payment of motor vehicle tax, and the absence of first-aid kits and fire extinguishers. Officials also found instances of drivers not wearing uniforms or seat belts and buses operating without attendants.
The enforcement action highlights the range of requirements attached to vehicles carrying schoolchildren. These requirements cover both the legal status of the vehicle and the operational safeguards expected during student journeys, including emergency equipment, responsible staffing and compliance by drivers.
Authorities said school buses must strictly follow safety norms because even minor negligence can endanger the lives of students. The enforcement wing has asked schools to rectify defects without delay and indicated that strict action will follow against vehicles found violating the rules.
The inspections were carried out in three busy urban areas of Ernakulam, where school transport forms part of the daily movement of children and staff. The department said its priority would remain the safety of student travel as checks are extended to additional areas in the coming days. No further details on the number of schools involved or the individual penalties imposed on each vehicle were provided in the report.
