Sat May 17 13:27:58 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
District Collector Pavankumar G. Giriyappanavar oversaw the inspection of 1,741 school buses in Coimbatore ahead of the new academic year. The inspection, conducted under Tamil Nadu Motor Vehicles rules, resulted in 945 buses passing and 58 being rejected for deficiencies. Checks focused on safety equipment, documentation, and driver vision. The Collector emphasized adherence to safety protocols, speed limits, and warned of action against non-compliant schools. A fire safety demonstration was also conducted. The public was encouraged to report overloading in auto-rickshaws.
**News Article:**
**Coimbatore Cracks Down on School Bus Safety Ahead of New Term**
**Coimbatore, May 17, 2025** – In a major safety initiative ahead of the new academic year, over 1,700 school buses in Coimbatore were subjected to rigorous inspections on Saturday, overseen by District Collector Pavankumar G. Giriyappanavar. The inspection, conducted at the Police Recruits School (PRS) grounds, aimed to ensure compliance with the Tamil Nadu Motor Vehicles (Regulation and Control of School Buses) Rules.
Out of 1,741 buses operated by 274 private schools, 945 passed the inspection. However, 58 vehicles were rejected due to deficiencies, including lack of proper certification. The inspections focused on critical safety aspects such as functional fire extinguishers, comprehensive first aid kits, accessible emergency exits, and operational front and rear cameras. Officials also meticulously verified essential documentation, including valid fitness certificates.
Drivers were also screened for vision problems, and those needing further medical attention were referred to the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital.
District Collector Giriyappanavar emphasized the importance of continuous adherence to safety protocols, stating, “School buses must operate within prescribed speed limits, particularly in urban areas. Safety must be a priority at all times, not just during inspections.” He warned that strict action would be taken against school managements failing to meet safety standards.
The public was also urged to report instances of overloading in auto-rickshaws, particularly those carrying more children than permitted, to the police.
Adding to the comprehensive safety measures, the Fire and Rescue Services Department conducted a demonstration on emergency evacuation procedures and the proper use of fire extinguishers, providing crucial training for school staff.
The inspection underscores the district administration’s commitment to ensuring the safe transportation of students in Coimbatore.
First Piper 