Motor Vehicles Department to halt checking fitness of school vehicles

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Motor Department postponed the annual fitness test of school vehicles till April 2026. It is alleged that the recommendation of higher authorities is behind the postponement of the further test for this academic year.

The Transport Commissioner's extension of the fitness period through a departmental circular is deemed illegal. According to the Central Motor Vehicles Act, officials do not have the authority to extend the fitness period of vehicles. The official explanation mentions that the action was taken after considering the petition submitted by the school management. Most schools have already conducted the fitness test of their vehicles.

The circular clearly shows the ‘concern’ the department attaches to the safety of children. School vehicles need to be submitted for safety inspection every year after fixing technical faults. School managements argue that there is no time to repair the vehicles due to the ongoing academic sessions. Although the Transport Commissioner extended the fitness period through a departmental circular, insurance companies will deny compensation if the vehicles meet with an accident. Vehicles with technical defects are likely to be on the road with children in the coming days. A recent inspection by the Motor Vehicles Department found several defective school vehicles plying on the road. There were several cases of school vehicles getting involved in accidents due to brake failure and worn tyres.

The management's argument of not having ample time to repair the vehicles is untenable. Buses that are properly maintained can get a fitness certificate in two weeks. The management can use contract vehicles during this period to ferry children. However, the Motor Vehicles Department chose to bow to pressure from school managements.