Karnataka Transport Department Directs Corporations to Enhance Student Safety
With the new academic year approaching in less than two months, the Karnataka state transport department has issued a directive to all road transport corporations to roll out comprehensive student-focused measures. These initiatives include the introduction of special buses, higher frequency services, and stricter safety norms to ensure a secure and accessible public transport system for students.
Following Child Rights Commission Recommendations
The directive comes in response to recommendations from the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR), which emphasized the need to improve safety and accessibility for students who rely on public transport. In a recent communication, the department has instructed state-run operators—such as KSRTC, BMTC, North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation, and Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation—to thoroughly examine and implement the panel's proposals.
Key Measures to Be Implemented
The corporations have been mandated to increase bus frequencies during peak morning and evening hours and to introduce new routes that are aligned with school and college timings. Additionally, district-level student transport safety committees will be formed, led by deputy commissioners, to monitor implementation, prevent overcrowding, and ensure that students are not forced to travel standing.
KSCPCR has highlighted that safe and accessible transport is critical to securing children's right to education. The commission noted that a significant portion of students, particularly those from rural and economically weaker backgrounds, depend heavily on public buses for their daily commute.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Strict Enforcement
The department has also called for infrastructure upgrades at bus stations, including the installation of CCTV cameras, and has mandated strict enforcement of a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment under the POCSO Act. A complete ban on overloading and on students traveling standing has been imposed, with warnings that unsafe conditions could violate children's right to life and safety.
Positive Response from Former KSCPCR Member
KT Thippeswamy, a former member of KSCPCR, commented on the initiative, stating, "This is a welcome and positive step by the government towards making public transport safer and more accessible for students. Ensuring a child-friendly transport system is essential, especially for children from rural and economically weaker sections who depend heavily on public buses."
The measures aim to create a more reliable and secure environment for students as they prepare for the upcoming academic year, addressing long-standing concerns about public transport safety in the state.
