Pune: Illegal School Transport in Private Vehicles Raises Student Safety Concerns, RTO Plans Crackdown
Pune, 3rd August 2026: The illegal transportation of schoolchildren in private vehicles bearing white registration plates has come under scrutiny in Pune, with concerns mounting over student safety. The issue was highlighted during an inspection conducted outside schools on Laxmi Road under the “Students’ Safety First” initiative.
The inspection reportedly found several private vehicles transporting students without complying with mandatory safety regulations. Many vehicles were allegedly carrying more children than their permitted capacity and lacked essential safety features required for school transport.
Under the Motor Vehicles Act, vehicles used for transporting schoolchildren must possess a valid school transport permit and comply with prescribed safety norms, including a yellow commercial registration plate, fire extinguisher, emergency exit, and other mandatory safety equipment. However, inspectors observed that private vehicles with white registration plates were being used for commercial school transport in violation of these regulations.
Similar instances have also been reported in Pune’s suburban areas, prompting citizens to demand strict enforcement by the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Deputy Regional Transport Officer Sandeep Khadse said that transporting schoolchildren in private vehicles with white number plates is illegal. He announced that the RTO will conduct special inspection drives outside schools across Pune’s central areas. Vehicles found violating the rules will face penal action, and authorities may seize vehicles operating without the required permissions.
Parents have also expressed concern over the safety of children travelling in unauthorized vehicles. They have urged the RTO to take immediate action against violators and ensure strict implementation of school transport regulations.
Eknath Dhole, West Maharashtra President of the Maharashtra State Student Transport Association, said the use of private vehicles for school transport poses a serious risk to students’ lives. He called on parents to verify whether their children are travelling in authorised school transport vehicles and urged schools to regularly inspect vehicles used for transporting students.
With the new academic session underway, citizens have called for sustained enforcement and stricter monitoring to ensure that all school transport vehicles comply with safety norms and provide secure transportation for students.
