The mandatory annual safety audit of the vehicles of the educational institutions in the district commenced here on Tuesday to reassure the operational worthiness of these vehicles carrying the students everyday.
While inaugurating the safety audit, District Collector Vishu Mahajan, who inspected a few vehicles personally, said the emergency exit, fire extinguisher, speed governor, first-aid kits, validity of driving licence of the drivers, strength of the wooden floor plank of the vehicles etc. were being checked during the inspection. A total of 210 vehicles under the jurisdiction of Regional Transport Officer, Thoothukudi would be screened in the district headquarters while similar exercises would be completed before the end of summer vacation in Kovilpatti and Tiruchendur RTO offices as well.
“The vans and buses of the educational institutions will be allowed to carry the students only after the operational worthiness of these vehicles is reconfirmed during this annual inspection,” Mr. Vishu Mahajan said.
District Collector Vishu Mahajan along with officials inspecting the School buses in Thoothukudi on Tuesday. | Photo Credit: N. RAJESH
A team of Fire and Rescue Services personnel trained the drivers in firefighting techniques as part of the safety audit.
Superintendent of Police C. Madhan, Regional Transport Officer Rajendra Kumar, Assistant District Fire Officer Gomathi Amudha, Motor Vehicle Inspector Fatima Parveen and Inspector of Police (Traffic) William Benjamin were present.