Pune: RTO Orders CCTV Cameras in All School Buses and Vans by July 31; Non-Compliance to Attract Action
Pune News, June 28, 2025: In order to enhance student safety, the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) has issued a directive requiring all school buses and vans to install CCTV cameras by July 31, 2025. Non-compliance will result in strict action against vehicle owners and drivers, officials warned.
Currently, 7,103 school buses and vans operate across Pune city and its suburbs. However, while some buses already have CCTV systems, many are non-functional, and most vans lack cameras entirely. The decision follows multiple incidents involving school children in the past year, prompting Pune police and the transport department to enforce stricter safety measures.
The mandate was finalized during a School Bus Safety Committee meeting, where additional precautions were also discussed. With the new academic year underway, the RTO has urged schools and transport operators to comply immediately.
Key Safety Guidelines:
- CCTV cameras mandatory in all school transport vehicles.
- Women staff required in vehicles carrying children under six.
- Female staff compulsory in buses/ vans transporting girl students.
- Police verification mandatory for drivers, conductors, and cleaners.
- Overloading strictly prohibited.
Deputy RTO Swapnil Bhosale stated, “From August 1, inspections will begin, and violators will face strict penalties.” The School Management Committee and Student Safety and Infrastructure Development Committee have been tasked with ensuring compliance.
