Lack of school transport in Punjab raises serious concerns among citizens and parents.
Despite Lahore High Court orders for schools to arrange safe travel, many institutions fail to provide buses. Parents report children traveling daily in unsafe vehicles like rickshaws and vans, often overcrowded with no safety measures.
Muhammad Ejaz expressed fear over his children’s safety, saying they are crammed into rickshaws without seat belts or accountability. Salma Bibi sent her children in private vans due to increasing fees but no improvements in facilities.
Students also complain about traveling in unsafe vehicles during all seasons, affecting their studies and punctuality.
Education experts argue that school transport is a basic necessity for safety and traffic reduction. They urge the government to enforce clear policies.
Punjab Teachers Union General Secretary Rana Liaqat Ali revealed that most government schools are in low-income areas where children walk or ride motorcycles. He criticized private schools for not complying with bus arrangements, leading to unsafe travel conditions.
The Education Department has shown little seriousness and lacks a proper monitoring system for vehicle conditions or passenger numbers. No clear rules exist for either public or private school transport.
Environmental experts highlight the issue in terms of smog reduction. They argue that an effective school bus system could replace dozens of vehicles, lowering air pollution.
Citizens demand immediate implementation of Lahore High Court orders, mandating schools to provide transport and setting regulations for private operators. Parents warn of potential devastating consequences if action is not taken soon.