Ayodhya: The Transport Department has intensified enforcement against non-compliant school vehicles in Ayodhya, warning operators that strict action will be taken against vehicles running without valid fitness certificates, permits, pollution clearances, and other mandatory documents.
Acting on directives issued by the state government and the Transport Commissioner, Regional Transport Officer (Administration) Ritu Singh conducted an inspection at the Barabanki office on Tuesday and held a meeting with school vehicle operators and management representatives.
During the meeting, attended by nearly 50 school transport owners and school authorities, the RTO clearly instructed operators to immediately complete all pending documentation for their vehicles. She emphasized that all school vehicles must apply for school permits in accordance with the Uttar Pradesh Motor Vehicles Rules 2019 and the amended provisions introduced in 2022.
Officials warned that vehicles with incomplete documents, including pending Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates and other minor deficiencies, must rectify the issues within 24 hours or face legal action.
Representatives from the District Inspector of Schools (DIOS) and Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA) offices also took a firm stand during the meeting. They stated that schools operating vehicles in violation of prescribed norms could face administrative action, including suspension of their UDISE codes.
Assistant Regional Transport Officer (Administration/Enforcement) Ankita Shukla informed participants that the department has been continuously conducting challan and seizure operations against vehicles operating without fitness certificates and permits.
According to officials, several vehicles have already been blacklisted, around 80 notices have been issued, and the registration of one vehicle has been suspended as part of the ongoing enforcement drive.
School representatives from institutions including Samad International School, Baba Gurukul Academy, Adhunik Bharat School, Kriti Public School, and Shri Sharda Bal Vidya Mandir assured officials that they would complete the application process and documentation at the earliest.
RTO Ritu Singh also highlighted mandatory safety standards for school vehicles. She said all school buses must be painted yellow and equipped with emergency exits, fire extinguishers, first-aid boxes, and female attendants for girl students. She further stressed that drivers must undergo character verification and possess valid licences, while vehicles must remain in proper technical condition.
During the inspection, the RTO also reviewed office management, staff attendance, and the process of document verification. Officials were instructed to regularly share lists of schools with incomplete documentation with the Education Department and ensure that such institutions are summoned during District School Vehicle Committee meetings for further action.
While expressing satisfaction over the department surpassing its revenue collection targets in April, the RTO also voiced concern over negligence in data cleaning and vehicle inspections. She directed officials to maintain strict vigilance and ensure 100 percent compliance with road safety norms for all school vehicles operating in the district.
