Deputy Transport Commissioner (DTC) for NTR district M. Purendra on Friday (May 8, 2026) said that inspections of buses operated by educational institutions are being carried out extensively to ensure the safety of students travelling in these vehicles.

In a statement, Mr. Purendra said that special inspections began on May 1 and will cover 1,571 buses belonging to educational institutions across the district. He added that 12 special teams were formed, with each team assigned the responsibility of inspecting around 130 buses.

The DTC said that the inspections are being conducted in accordance with Rule 185(G) of the Andhra Pradesh Motor Vehicles Rules (APMV Rules), Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR), AIS-63, AIS-52, AIS-135, and other road safety standards and so far, around 250 buses have been inspected, and several safety deficiencies were identified.

The major deficiencies included installation of seats near emergency exits, obstructing emergency evacuation, absence of Vehicle Location Tracking Device (VLTD), lack of fire protection systems and fire extinguishers, or fire extinguishers being in non-functional condition, non-availability of safety hammers and absence of first aid boxes, reflective tapes, and other safety equipment.

He said notices were issued to the managements of the educational institutions concerned regarding the identified deficiencies and they were directed to rectify all shortcomings by May 20.

He said as part of the special drive, evacuation demonstrations were also being conducted to train students on safe evacuation procedures during emergencies. In addition, awareness was being created among drivers, attendants and educational institutions staff regarding the usage of fire extinguishers.

Mr. Purendra appealed to all educational institution managements to ensure that their buses were fully equipped with facilities in accordance with safety standards before the commencement of the new academic year. He warned of strict action under the Motor Vehicles Act (MV Act) and APMV Rules against institutions transporting students in defective or unfit buses, without adhering to safety standards.