Arun Trisal Early Times Report Kathua, Sept 1: Hundreds of private vehicles engaged by different schools in kathua are running illegally by flouting traffic rules. However, law enforcement agencies the Traffic Police and Region Transport Office (RTO), Kathua have turned a blind eye towards the issue. As per the norm, the school buses should be of yellow colour, to easily identify them. However, many schools have hired private vehicles for the purpose. "Only yellow-colour school vehicles are authorized. No private vehicle can be allowed to ferry children but the rule is being flouted with impunity in Jammu," a senior administrative official said. Sources said over 75 private vans were operating, apart from minibuses and buses, with various schools in the city. Traffic Police challaned 7 school buses violating safety and traffic rules in the city. In view of rising road accidents in the State, the High Court directed the authorities to ensure safety of general public and take strict action against the traffic rules violators. Hearing a PIL on decongestion and smooth plying of traffic, Division Bench of Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice Rashid Ali Dar directed the authorities to place before the court safety measures taken for the safety of passengers and school going children. DB during the course of proceedings of the case observed that the traffic rules and regulation are violated with impunity resulting into loss of precious lives due to road accidents and the authorities are not aware of their responsibility. |