Fitness certificate of 148 buses not renewed

The Transport Department officials have refused to renew fitness certificates of 148 school buses.

A total of 735 school buses come under the jurisdictions of Regional Transport Officers of Tirupur North and Tirupur South.

The officials have said that owners of the buses have been asked to rectify defects to get fitness certificate.

Regional Transport Officer (Tirupur North) R. Rajinikanth told The Hindu that some of the buses were having

damaged foot boards, and platforms, some were not having grills on side windows, first-aid boxes and fire extinguishers were missing, and emergency doors were faulty.

“We have organised a session for school bus drivers to educate them about specific rules to be followed while commuting students. Though the driving hours are very less, school bus drivers carry a significant responsibility as the vehicles carry minors,” he said.

The drivers were cautioned against speeding even on straight stretches.