KSRTC told to improve student-friendly transport

Udupi: Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) member Dr Thippeswamy KT has urged KSRTC to take necessary steps to ensure student-friendly transport services. At a meeting at the Government Composite High School in Olakadu, he addressed KSRTC officials from Udupi and Kundapur divisions, highlighting transportation challenges faced by students. He instructed officials to coordinate with school and college principals in rural areas, understand their schedules, and align transport services accordingly.
Dr Thippeswamy said that any transportation-related requests from students must be promptly reviewed and addressed. He also stressed the importance of deploying traffic controllers or supervisors at key junctions with high student footfall to ensure smooth operations. He also directed KSRTC staff to be trained to behave courteously towards students, ensuring buses stop at designated stands and assisting students in boarding and alighting safely.
Further, he called for mandatory training for KSRTC officials and staff on juvenile justice act and the Pocso Act. A divisional-level survey should be conducted to assess overcrowding in buses, and additional services must be introduced if needed.
He also directed that every bus and bus stop should display the child helpline number. If required, the district child protection unit should be involved to enhance student-friendly transport services.
Dr Thippeswamy reiterated that education is a fundamental right. But merely granting rights is insufficient. Ensuring proper support systems, such as accessible and safe transportation, is crucial for children to fully exercise their right to education.