Punjab government directs transport companies to follow safety norms

CHANDIGARH: Punjab government today directed authorised transport operators in the state to adhere to every safety guideline while ferrying schoolchildren and said that there would be zero tolerance to any lapses.

An official spokesman here said that strict action would be initiated against any erring drivers as well as the transport company whose vehicle was involved in an offence.

If held responsible, the transport company would have its licence cancelled.

The spokesman said that bus and autorickshaw owners have been advised against carrying students beyond the permitted capacity of their vehicles.

Road mishaps due to negligence every year result in 4,000 deaths in Punjab, the official said.

Taking serious note of the fatalities, Punjab government has directed transport authorities to ensure the fitness of the vehicles, he added.

Transport authorities have also been directed to strictly monitor vehicular speed on roads and also ensure that drivers are fully trained and carry their complete papers while moving about.