KARACHI: Sindh’s Education Minister has imposed a strict ban on the use of CNG and LPG cylinders in school vans to ensure students’ safety, while private educational institutions have been directed to implement all necessary transport safety measures.
In a letter issued to the administrations of private schools on the instructions of the provincial education minister, it has been made clear that unsafe methods of supplying petrol to school vans will not be permitted. Refuelling vehicle engines using bottles or cans has also been declared dangerous and prohibited.
According to the directives, school vans will not be allowed to carry students beyond their designated seating capacity. Transporting children while they are standing on the footboards of vans has also been strictly prohibited.
The Sindh government has made valid fitness certificates mandatory for all vehicles used for school transportation. Schools have also been instructed to ensure that a copy of the relevant fitness certificate is kept inside each vehicle for inspection whenever required.
The education minister has directed private educational institutions to ensure strict compliance with all prescribed safety regulations concerning school transportation. The letter further warns that legal action will be taken against the administrations of schools found violating these instructions.
The provincial education minister has reiterated that the safety and well-being of students remain the government’s top priority, stressing that no negligence or compromise on student safety will be tolerated.
