Karachi schools warned: Ensure safe transport or face legal action

KARACHI: The Sindh Education Ministry has directed all private schools across Karachi to ensure safe transportation for students while imposing a strict ban on gas cylinders in school vans, ARY News reported.

The Department of Education has instructed all private schools in Karachi to strictly implement safety and protective measures for students.

Following the directives of the Provincial Education Minister, the Directorate of Inspection and Registration of Private Educational Institutions issued these instructions.

Schools Must Guarantee Student safety 

As per the communique, administrators of all private schools must guarantee student safety. The Directorate noted that some school vans currently operate with gas cylinders installed, posing a serious threat to students’ lives.

No Cylinders allowed in School vans 

“Some school vans have cylinders installed, which pose a serious danger to students’ lives. Due to unsafe arrangements, there is a risk of fire, explosions, and other untoward incidents,” the Directorate stated.

Over Crowding in School vehicles Prohibited 

The Directorate instructed school administrations to direct transporters to carry students strictly within vehicle capacities, emphasizing that overcrowding will not be tolerated.

Reports indicate that fuel was being filled into some vehicles using bottles and cans—an extremely dangerous practice.

Additionally, several vehicles were found operating beyond their passenger capacity and without valid fitness certificates from the Transport Department.

Fitness Certificates Mandatory For School Transports 

The Directorate made it clear that obtaining and maintaining an effective fitness certificate from the Transport Department is mandatory for all school vans.

Furthermore, school administrations were strictly warned not to allow students to travel on vehicle footboards, hang from doors, or occupy any other unsafe positions.

All transport providers must comply fully with relevant laws, safety regulations, and security standards.

The Directorate warned that in case of any violations, action will be taken against the school administration, holding them legally responsible.