Punjab Government Enforces Stricter Rules on School Transportation for Student Safety
The Punjab government mandates private schools to implement safe and eco-friendly transportation plans for students. Schools must submit detailed action plans or face registration suspension. Learn about the new policy and its implications.
Punjab Government Tightens Rules on School Transportation
The Punjab government has introduced stringent regulations for private schools, compelling them to provide safe and eco-friendly transportation services for students. This initiative comes as part of the government’s compliance with the Lahore High Court’s (LHC) directives to prioritize student safety and address environmental concerns.
New Transportation Policy for Private Schools
The Punjab School Education Department (SED) has officially directed all private schools to submit detailed transportation plans by the end of the winter break. These plans must include:
- A written mechanism ensuring transportation for at least 50% of students.
- Data on the total number of enrolled students.
- Details on available buses and current users of school transport services.
Failure to comply with these requirements could lead to suspension or cancellation of school registrations.
LHC’s Role in Implementing the Policy
The policy stems from an LHC ruling, where Justice Shahid Karim ordered private schools to adhere to a bus facility policy within one month to renew their registrations. The court emphasized that incomplete or insufficient plans would result in immediate action against non-compliant schools, underscoring the importance of student safety and environmental sustainability.
Focus on Prominent Schools
Lahore’s District Education Authority (DEA) Chief Executive Officer, Nazeer Hussain Chheena, has specifically instructed leading private schools, including Lahore Grammar School, Beaconhouse, City School, and Lacas, to provide data on their latest bus purchases and transportation arrangements. Non-compliance will result in strict measures, including the cancellation of registrations.
SED and DEA’s Commitment to Safety
SED Secretary Khalid Nazir Wattoo reaffirmed that these measures aim to ensure safe and eco-friendly transport options for students. Both the SED and DEA are determined to enforce LHC’s orders, ensuring that private schools prioritize student safety.
Schools that neglect or fail to implement the mandated transportation services will face severe penalties, leaving no room for negligence in this critical matter.
The Punjab government’s new regulations mark a significant step toward ensuring student safety and environmental protection in the education sector. Private schools must act promptly to meet these requirements or risk losing their registrations. These measures not only aim to enhance student well-being but also contribute to sustainable urban transportation practices.
