Police caution school drivers on health

MUMBAI, JAN 10: Fitness seems to be farthest on the priority list of school bus drivers in the city. Some startling facts were revealed during a medical camp held for them at Nagpada Police Hospital recently. The traffic police had organised the meet in the light of increasing number of accidents involving school buses.

Of 61 drivers who were given a thorough medical examination it was found that 12 suffered from eyesight defects and needed eyeglasses, while one blissfully carried on with his job despite cataract. The medical team was led by state police surgeon Dr G V Uppe.

Others suffered from hypertension, skin diseases, drug allergies, diabetes and even tuberculosis with heart problem, the police surgeon said. Each of these problems could prove to be dangerous when the driver is behind wheels with the responsibility of safety of young students, he pointed out.

A medical report of these drivers will be sent to respective school managements for further action, Dr Uppe said.