NTSA Issues Road Safety Compliance Checklist for PSV Drivers, Conductors Ahead of Schools Reopening
As schools prepare to reopen, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has raised alarm over road safety. The authority has directed all Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) to strictly follow a safety checklist before ferrying children.
NTSA Sounds the Alarm
On Tuesday, August 19, NTSA reminded drivers and conductors of their huge responsibility.
“Never allow your child to board an unroadworthy vehicle. Make their safety your priority. Call your child’s school today and confirm if the vehicle they will use has a valid insurance, is licensed, serviced, and safe to carry your child,” NTSA stated.
The warning followed random checks on school vehicles. Authorities discovered shocking faults, including faulty seatbelts, broken locks, shaky cushions, and missing speed limiters.
Checklist for Drivers and Conductors
NTSA outlined a strict checklist every PSV must follow. Vehicles must be roadworthy and have valid inspection certificates, road service licenses, and insurance.
Additionally, brakes, tyres, mirrors, and lights must all be in perfect condition.
Moreover, NTSA ordered that speed governors must function and transmit data to the Intelligent Road Safety Management System. This technology monitors vehicles in real-time, preventing reckless driving.
Driver and Conductor Requirements
Drivers and conductors must also prove they are legally authorized. They should have valid driving licenses and PSV badges at all times.
During transit, every child must sit securely with a seatbelt fastened. NTSA warned against children leaning out of windows or hanging on doors.
The authority also urged vigilance.
“Drivers and conductors should report any student under the influence of drugs or alcohol to NTSA immediately,” the notice read.
Parents Asked to Play a Role
NTSA stressed that responsibility does not rest with drivers alone. Parents must also confirm that school vehicles are licensed, insured, and serviced before letting children board.
The agency highlighted the scale of the crisis.
“For public systems, we have flagged 315,000 public service vehicles and commercial vehicles operating without valid inspection certificates, and all the owners have been notified to undertake immediate remedial measures,” NTSA revealed.
Safety Before Speed
As schools reopen, NTSA has urged cooperation between parents, drivers, and school heads. The authority insists that prevention, not cure, will save lives.
With thousands of children traveling back to school, NTSA’s tough checklist could be the difference between safe journeys and deadly accidents.
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NTSA Issues Road Safety Compliance Checklist for PSV Drivers, Conductors Ahead of Schools Reopening
