Stop minor students from bringing vehicles to schools: Education Directorate

Taking a tough stance against underage driving, the education authorities in Kashmir have asked all schools and coaching centres to not allow minor students to come to the institution while driving any motor vehicle, including two-wheelers or four-wheelers.

The decision was taken following the death of two teenage boys in a road accident in Srinagar last week. The mishap had also prompted the Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department to advise parents against allowing their underage children to drive two/four-wheelers.

“It is a matter of grave concern that incidents of underage driving among students are on the rise, resulting in tragic road accidents and endangering public safety,” a circular issued by the Directorate of School Education, Kashmir, stated.

It said, “In this regard, all schools (govt/private recognised) and coaching centres operating in the Kashmir Division are hereby placed under strict instructions to keep a close vigil to ensure that no student (minor) is allowed to attend the institution while driving any motor vehicle, including two-wheelers or four-wheelers.”

The directorate in its circular has issued instructions to the heads of institutions, government and private schools and administrators of registered coaching centres. The circular said students arriving at schools or coaching centres using motor vehicles of any type must not be permitted entry under any circumstances and their parents be informed accordingly.

It also said that parents and guardians “must be informed about this directive and it is their responsibility to ensure compliance.”

The directorate has asked institutions to activate all road safety and school safety clubs to raise awareness through IEC activities.

The schools have also been asked to conduct PTMs to “educate parents /students on road safety, information on age restrictions, consequences of underage driving and importance of parental commitment.”

“Issue advisories to parents and guardians, emphasising their legal accountability for allowing minors to drive and the serious consequences of non-compliance,” it said.

The authorities have warned “institutions found violating this directive will face withdrawal of recognition or cancellation of registration as per the applicable regulations and stringent action will be initiated against the heads of institutions and staff.”

“The above circular instructions shall be strictly adhered to by heads of all educational institutions and any dereliction shall invite appropriate legal action under the Motor Vehicles Act and other relevant laws,” it said. “This circular must be widely disseminated among staff, students and parents for immediate and strict adherence.”

After the two deadly incidents in Srinagar, political leaders and civil society members have expressed concern over the rise in road mishaps in the Valley.

Warns of strict action

• Education authorities in Kashmir ask all schools, coaching centres to not allow minor students to come to the institution in 2/4 wheelers
• Schools asked to conduct PTMs to "educate parents/ students about consequences of underage driving and importance of parental commitment"
• Authorities warned “institutions found violating this directive will face withdrawal of recognition or cancellation of registration and stringent action against staff”