Students in Ahmedabad who ride two-wheelers to school without a valid driving licence or helmet will no longer be allowed to enter school premises, according to a new directive issued by the District Education Officer (DEO).
The move is aimed at improving road safety and preventing accidents involving school students.
Schools Told to Enforce Traffic Rules
The DEO has directed all government, grant-in-aid and private secondary and higher secondary schools to stop students from entering if they arrive on two-wheelers without a valid licence or without wearing a helmet.
Schools have also been asked to counsel parents and ensure that underage students do not ride motor vehicles in violation of traffic rules.
Parents and Schools Must Work Together
Under the new guidelines, schools must identify students who bring two-wheelers despite being ineligible to drive. Parents will be informed and advised not to allow their children to ride vehicles without a valid licence.
The DEO has made it clear that schools must take responsibility for enforcing the rules and spreading awareness about safe driving practices among students.
Surprise Checks by Education Department and RTO
The education department, along with the Regional Transport Office (RTO), will conduct surprise inspections at schools to check whether students are following the rules.
Officials will verify driving licences and helmet use. Students found riding without a valid licence or helmet, including those using electric scooters that require a licence, may face action under the Motor Vehicles Act.
Part of Gujarat’s Road Safety Campaign
The directive is part of Gujarat’s broader road safety drive to curb underage driving and improve compliance with traffic laws. It follows several fatal road accidents involving minors and the state’s intensified campaign to enforce helmet use.
Officials hope the new measures will encourage safer commuting and reduce road accidents involving schoolchildren.