Regional News

School Van Operators Demand Strict Action Against Private Vehicles Used for Transporting Students

By Editor

Posted on April 18, 2026

School Van Operators Demand Strict Action Against Private Vehicles Used for Transporting Students

Mangaluru : The association of school vehicle operators has formally urged the authorities to take stringent legal action against private vehicles (white board) that are illegally transporting school children for hire across Dakshina Kannada district. During a press conference, association leaders highlighted that according to the law, only tourist vehicles (yellow board) are permitted to ferry students. While authorized operators strictly adhere to regulations—including paying high insurance premiums of approximately ₹23,000 annually, installing panic buttons costing ₹14,000, and paying regular government taxes—many private vehicle owners are bypassing these requirements, causing significant losses to the state exchequer and posing a grave risk to student safety.

The association expressed deep concern over the recurring instances of heart-wrenching accidents involving private vehicles used for school transport. Despite submitting multiple memorandums over the past five to six years, they noted with regret that the concerned departments have failed to initiate effective crackdowns. The operators emphasized that they have complied with every new government mandate, yet they continue to face unfair competition and professional hardship due to the unchecked operation of white-board vehicles. They called upon the media to raise public awareness and urged the district administration to issue strict directives to school managements to ensure that only legally authorized vehicles are employed for student transportation.

The press meet was attended by Honorary President Sunil Kumar Bajal, Executive President Kiran Ladyhill, President Satish Poojary Ashoknagar, Founder President Mohan Kumar Attavar, and General Secretary Harish Poojary. Other key members including Lokesh Surathkal, Munna Padavinangady, Narendra Hoigebail, Rajesh Kulai, Dinesh Kunjathbail, and Shankar were also present to show their support for the cause.