No discrepancies in school bus ferrying 15 children that caught fire: Pune RTO

Deputy RTO officer Swapnil Bhosale said all documents related to the bus were verified and found to be in proper order. The vehicle, registered in 2015, complied with the criteria set under the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA).

“The bus was in good condition, and no evidence suggested that the driver was operating it illegally. However, the cause of the fire remains unknown. It is essential for school buses to be equipped with fire safety tools,” he said.

Discussing the fire safety of buses, Bhosale mentioned the new General Safety Rules (GSR) introduced last year, which mandate the Fire Alarm and Protection System (FAPS) for buses. “The GSR 137 (A), launched in October last year, states that Type III buses (including school buses running long distances) must be equipped with FAPS in the occupant compartment,” he said.

He explained that FAPS functions similarly to systems installed in malls and hotels, which can immediately detect fire incidents. “Real-time fire detection helps prevent accidents. However, since the bus in this case was manufactured in 2015, it does not fall under the new GSR requirements,” Bhosale added.

Buses manufactured before 2023 are mandated to have basic fire safety equipment, such as a fire extinguisher near the driver’s seat, emergency exits for passenger evacuation, and basic fire training for drivers.

Bhosale further stated that starting this month, the RTO will conduct regular campaigns to inspect buses and ensure compliance with RTO regulations. He added that from January to November this year, a total of 601 school vehicles were found violating rules of the 1,503 inspected vehicles, resulting in penalties amounting to Rs 21.99 lakh, including fines imposed by both the RTO and the court.