Andhra Pradesh Orders School Buses to Fix Safety Defects by May 20

Deputy Transport Commissioner M. Purendra announced on May 8, 2026, that 1,571 buses operated by educational institutions in NTR district are undergoing mandatory safety inspections, with 250 already assessed and major violations identified. The drive, launched on May 1, is being conducted by 12 special teams under Rule 185(G) of the Andhra Pradesh Motor Vehicles Rules and Central Motor Vehicle Rules, targeting full compliance before the new academic year.

Deficiencies include seats blocking emergency exits, missing or non-functional fire extinguishers, lack of fire protection systems, absence of safety hammers, first aid kits, reflective tapes, and Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTD). Notices have been issued to respective institutions directing immediate rectification of all faults by the May 20 deadline.

Evacuation drills are being conducted for students, and drivers, attendants, and staff are being trained in fire extinguisher use. The DTC warned that institutions operating non-compliant buses after the deadline will face strict enforcement action under the Motor Vehicles Act and state rules.

The transport department will review compliance status after May 20 and initiate penalties for continued violations.