Panchkula Authorities Take Strict Action Against Unsafe School Buses
Panchkula has launched a major crackdown on school buses that fail to meet safety standards. The Regional Transport Authority, together with the education department and traffic police, conducted extensive checks over two months.
Widespread Violations Discovered During Inspections
Officials inspected a total of 214 buses during November and December last year. They found numerous safety violations that put students at risk.
The enforcement teams issued challans to 25 buses in November and another 27 in December. This brought the total to 52 buses facing penalties for various infractions.
Common Safety Issues Found on School Buses
During the inspections, authorities discovered several critical problems:
- Missing first-aid kits in many vehicles
- Expired fitness certificates
- Absent fire extinguishers
- Non-functional cameras
Additional concerns included issues with speed limits, improper signage, and lack of attendants on buses. Schools received immediate directives to correct these problems and ensure strict compliance with all safety norms.
District Road Safety Committee Meeting Addresses Concerns
These details emerged during a meeting of the district road safety committee and safe school vehicle policy at the mini secretariat. Deputy Commissioner Satpal Sharma chaired the session and reviewed policy implementation.
Sharma emphasized the need for regular checks of all school buses. He insisted that every vehicle must carry mandatory safety equipment at all times. This includes properly stocked first-aid kits that could save lives during emergencies.
Coordinated Efforts to Prevent Road Accidents
The deputy commissioner stressed coordinated action among various departments. He highlighted the committee's primary objective: preventing road accidents and reducing mortality rates.
"Human life is invaluable," Sharma stated. "Timely first aid can save lives in many accident situations."
He directed officials to ensure accident victims reach the nearest health facility immediately. This would guarantee essential medical care without unnecessary delays.
Special Focus on Youth and Traffic Awareness
Sharma instructed the police department to organize awareness programs targeting young people. The goal is to ensure stricter compliance with traffic rules among this vulnerable group.
He ordered special enforcement drives against common violations:
- Riding two-wheelers without helmets
- Overspeeding
- Driving on the wrong side of the road
Addressing Fog-Related Safety Concerns
With ongoing foggy conditions creating additional hazards, authorities emphasized extra caution. Sharma directed that barricades at police checkpoints be removed promptly after duty completion. This measure aims to maintain smooth traffic flow and prevent accidents during low visibility.
Clearing Road Construction Hazards
The deputy commissioner also addressed road construction safety. He directed construction agencies to clear materials like gravel and sand immediately after completing work.
Sharma noted that unattended construction material had caused several accidents. Vehicles skidding on such debris pose serious risks to commuters.
Agencies received instructions to install adequate signboards and ensure proper road markings. These measures will minimize hazards wherever construction work occurs.
The comprehensive approach demonstrates Panchkula's commitment to student safety and broader road safety initiatives. Regular monitoring and strict enforcement will continue as authorities work to protect all road users.
