In a decisive move to safeguard students during the harsh winter months, the Punjab government has issued stringent directives to prevent accidents caused by dense fog. The state administration, prioritizing child safety, has ordered the rigorous enforcement of the existing Safe School Vehicle Policy across all districts.
Minister Directs Rigorous Implementation
Dr Baljit Kaur, the Punjab Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, has taken charge of the initiative. She stated that the Mann government is fully committed to the safety and well-being of every child. The clear policy, she emphasized, is to ensure that every student commutes safely between home and school, regardless of weather conditions.
Accordingly, the minister has directed the transport department and school authorities to ensure strict compliance with all prescribed safety norms. Regular and surprise checks of school vehicles will be conducted statewide to enforce the policy and avert any potential mishaps.
Key Safety Measures for Foggy Conditions
Highlighting the specific protocols for the winter season, Dr Baljit Kaur outlined mandatory steps for school transport operators. These include ensuring proper visibility, reducing vehicle speed significantly, and using reflectors. Furthermore, drivers have been instructed to keep headlights and fog lights switched on during low-visibility conditions.
Clear written instructions detailing these measures have been disseminated to all school managements and vehicle drivers. The government's focus is on proactive prevention to tackle the challenges posed by dense fog.
Understanding Over Pressure: A Shift in Mindset
In a significant and empathetic directive, the minister advised school authorities against putting undue pressure on drivers if vehicles are delayed due to fog. She stressed that the prevailing weather conditions must be understood, and the safety of children and staff must remain the utmost priority over punctuality.
Dr Baljit Kaur firmly asserted that the Punjab government will not compromise on child safety under any circumstances. This comprehensive approach combines strict enforcement of technical safety norms with a humane understanding of operational challenges during winter, aiming to create a secure travel ecosystem for Punjab's schoolchildren.
