Raising objections to new norms a delaying tactic
A close look at the objections raised by schoolbus operators has revealed that they have been playing every trick in the book to delay the implementation of safety norms.
In his letter detailing specific objections to the new norms, president of the School Bus Operators Association Anil Garg has mentioned six objections, which contradict some of his public statements. Some of them even find their way into the official statement sent to the transport department.
The six objections are lower foot board on buses as bad roads in the city renders them vulnerable to frequent damage; installing stanchions (poles) in buses would damage the floor and roof structure and can be applied only at the time of making the bus body; since the implementation of speed governors has not been notified by the state government, it should not be made mandatory; having racks for placing school bags under the seats is not necessary since there are hat racks in buses;the responsibility of employing lady attendants should be with the schools and not the operators and the age of the bus should not be the same as mentioned in the GR.
Activist Indrani Malkani said, It is surprising that the transporters are talking about various aspects, which compromise safety. As part of the Road Safety Campaign, the WIAA, along with the traffic police, has offered technique and refresher courses for safe driving. It is expected that school bus operators will send their drivers for this refresher courses. Has the association directed its members that the school bus drivers should be sent for this training?
Malkani said, The schools role is that of a facilitator. It cannot be the employer. The salaries ought to be paid by the operators.
Secretary of the School Bus Operators Association Deepak Naik, said, We are in talks with all the three regional transport offices in the city for organising road safety seminars for our drivers. By Saturday, some of the drivers should begin undertaking the lectures by RTO officials.