The Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/Secretary of the District Registering Authority/District Education Authority (DEA) Lahore has instructed leading private schools in the city to provide transportation for 50% of their students by October 1, 2024. Schools failing to comply with these directives will face strict action under existing regulations.

A meeting of the District Registering Authority Lahore, held on September 11, discussed implementing a Lahore High Court order regarding the provision of transport for 50% of private school students.

In letters sent to school owners and principals, it was emphasized that the Lahore High Court’s directives must be fully enforced. Schools are required to arrange or hire buses to accommodate at least half of their student population. Schools must share bus route plans with parents and ensure that all vehicles are well-maintained, hold valid fitness certificates, and undergo necessary inspections, including checks on fuel, tire pressure, and brakes, before each journey.

Drivers must have valid licenses, be medically and physically fit, and provide their CNIC, contact details, and addresses to the school. Overloading is strictly prohibited, and the number of students in the vehicle must not exceed its seating capacity. A teacher or an Aya must accompany students to supervise the driver and ensure safe driving, with drivers adhering to speed limits at all time

Additionally, a school’s registration or extension will be contingent upon submitting an undertaking confirming the arrangement of buses. These directives must be fully implemented by October 1, 2024.

According to sources in the Punjab School Education Department, District Registering Authorities/District Education Authorities in other districts of Punjab will issue similar directives to private schools in their respective areas to ensure compliance with the Lahore High Court order.

News Courtesy: Pro Pakistani