GPS, CCTV, Fee Caps for School Buses Under Maharashtra's New School Transport Rules

The Maharashtra government has proposed a new set of rules to improve the safety and regulation of school transport across the state. The draft focuses on student safety, fair pricing, and better monitoring systems. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said the goal is to make children’s safety the top priority.

The proposal comes under the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles (School Bus Regulation) (First Amendment) Rules, 2026. A draft notification has been released. Citizens have been given 15 days to send their suggestions and objections.

The state plans to regulate school bus fees. Regional Transport Authorities (RTAs) will decide a base fare per kilometre for each student to stop schools and private operators from charging arbitrary fees.

* Only monthly payments will be allowed

* Lump-sum advance fees will not be permitted

* RTAs will have the final authority to fix transport charges

All schools must form a School Transport Committee. This committee will handle complaints related to fees, safety, and service quality. It will also prepare reports every three months. The draft makes several safety features mandatory in all school vehicles. These are:

* GPS-based Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTD)

* Panic buttons

* CCTV cameras

* Seat belts for every seat

* Fire Detection and Alarm Systems (FDAS)

* Live vehicle tracking

* Digital attendance of students

* Automated alerts

* Direct communication with parents

Each vehicle must also have a digital monitoring system. This system will be linked to a state-level monitoring platform. The rules also focus on tracking students during travel. Schools must record daily attendance. Boarding and drop-off times must also be noted.

Young children will get extra attention. A female attendant or authorised staff member must travel with students up to Class 5. Children with disabilities are also included in the plan. Transport must be accessible, and parents or teachers must accompany the child when required.

Strict checks will apply to transport staff. Drivers, conductors, and other workers must undergo background verification. They must also provide medical fitness certificates. All school vehicles must follow the new rules within three months of implementation. If they fail to comply, their permits can be suspended or cancelled.