The Maharashtra government has notified a new set of school bus regulations aimed at improving student safety, increasing transparency and regulating transport charges. The revised rules introduce mandatory GPS-based live tracking, CCTV surveillance, digital attendance and official fare regulation for school buses and vans across the state.
Schools and transport operators have been given a three-month window to comply with the new requirements.
Parents to Get Live Bus Tracking and CCTV Access
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of a Digital Safety Monitoring System in every school bus and van. Parents will be able to track their child’s bus in real time through a certified mobile or web application.
The system will also provide access to CCTV footage, allowing parents and authorities to monitor student safety during transit. Schools must preserve the recordings for at least 30 days.
School Bus Fares to Be Regulated
For the first time, school bus fares will come under an official regulatory framework. Regional Transport Authorities (RTAs) will determine a base fare per kilometre per student, and transport operators will not be allowed to charge more than 10% above the approved fare.
The move is expected to bring greater transparency and prevent arbitrary fee hikes.
New Safety Features Become Mandatory
The revised regulations make several safety features compulsory for all school transport vehicles. These include GPS-enabled vehicle tracking, CCTV cameras, panic buttons, seat belts for every passenger and appropriate fire safety equipment.
Schools must also maintain digital records of students’ boarding and drop-off times, ensuring better accountability throughout the journey.
Stricter Rules for Operators and Schools
The new framework places greater responsibility on both schools and transport operators. Drivers and attendants must undergo background verification and medical fitness checks before being appointed.
For buses carrying children up to Class V, an additional female attendant or designated staff member will be mandatory. Schools will also be required to address transport-related complaints and submit regular compliance reports to the authorities.
Summary
Maharashtra has introduced comprehensive school bus regulations that mandate live GPS tracking, CCTV surveillance, digital attendance, panic buttons and regulated transport fares. Parents will gain real-time visibility into their children’s journeys, while schools and transport operators must comply with stricter safety and accountability standards within three months.
