HC warns action over non-compliance with school transport safety orders

Nagpur: The Nagpur bench of Bombay high court on Tuesday expressed sharp displeasure over lapses in implementing school bus safety norms, questioning administrative inaction and warning of possible action against the deputy director of education here.A division bench comprising Justices Anil Kilor and Raj Wakode noted that despite clear directives in the earlier hearings, essential measures — including issuing notices to schools and installing designated bus stop signage — were not carried out. "The issue is not being taken seriously," the court observed, pointing out that compliance was expected before the reopening of schools.Senior counsel Firdos Mirza assisted the court as amicus curiae, while Deepak Thakare represented the state govt and Abhay Sambare appeared for Nagpur Municipal Corporation.The court earlier directed the director to issue notices to all schools regarding adherence to school transport norms. However, during the latest hearing, it emerged that no such notices had been sent. The bench termed this a serious lapse and directed the education secretary to initiate action against the official and submit a report at the next hearing."There is no compliance made of this order," the bench remarked, questioning why no application was moved if there were difficulties in implementation. It directed the department of education secretary and the principal secretary (school education) to examine the matter and initiate appropriate action against erring officials. The matter stems from a suo motu PIL, initiated after the death of a schoolchild who was run over by a bus. Since then, the court has issued multiple directions aimed at strengthening student safety, including regulating bus operations and ensuring designated stoppages.Soon after the order was passed on Tuesday afternoon, the state govt sought urgent intervention, assuring the court that all pending directions would be complied with before the next hearing. Taking note, the bench granted temporary relief, staying its order on action against the deputy director of education until the next date. "If compliance is not ensured, the court will decide whether to enforce the earlier order," the bench cautioned, keeping the possibility of action open.The hearing also highlighted that designated stopping points for school buses and vans were identified across the city, but signboards indicating "school bus stop" were still missing at these locations. The traffic police assured the court that signage would be installed within 10 days.Additionally, the RTO informed that a comprehensive list of all schools operating buses or vans — either directly or through contractors — would be submitted before the next hearing. Authorities also committed to inspecting all school transport vehicles to ensure compliance with safety norms.